Seminole War

The Séminoles were a nation of Florida Indians, composed chiefly of Creeks and remnants of other tribes. During the War of 1812, the British had been materially aided by the Semi noles, The combined British and Indian stronghold—the ‘‘ Negro Fort,’ on the Appal a chi cola—was a constant menace to Georgia. During 1817, there were constant collisions and ma acres of the whites. General Gaines acconiplished little. Florida was then held by Spain. In January, 1818, Andrew Jackson was given command, and in le than six months completely reduced the Semi noles, burning their towns and defeating them day after day. Ambrister and Arbuthnot, English adventurers in league with the Spanish and Indians, were summarily hanged. Pensacola was captured and the whole of East Florida was taken po e ion of. After the acquisition of Florida, many slaves fled to the Semi noles. The Government endeavored to recover them, and to force the Semi noles to remove to the West.” War with the Semi noles ensued and was carried on with severity on both sides. General Thompson, the U. S. agent, finding their chiefs opposed to migration, put Osceola in chains. War followed, and Osceola killed Thompson and others at Fort King on December 28, 1835, and cut to pieces a body of troops under Major Dade. After a most disastrous struggle they were partially conquered, and in 1837 agreed to emigrate. Osceola, however, fled and renewed the war. He was finally taken by treachery and the conflict ended (1842). By treaty of 1845 the Semi noles were removed west of the Mi i ippi; in 1856 they were a igned lands west of the Creeks.