Chief Seattle was a prominent leader of the Suquamish and Duwamish tribes in the Pacific Northwest during the 19th century. He is best known for his eloquent speeches and his role in the Treaty of Point Elliott negotiations, which resulted in the forced relocation of his people. Chief Seattle's legacy extends beyond these pivotal moments in history, as his words and philosophy continue to inspire the environmental and Native American movements today. This article delves into the life and times of Chief Seattle, exploring his early years, rise to power, treaty negotiations, famous speeches, and lasting legacy.
Introduction: Who was Chief Seattle?
Chief Seattle, also known as Sealth, was a prominent figure in Pacific Northwest history. Born in 1780, he was a member of both the Suquamish and Duwamish tribes, living in what is now the Seattle area. Despite suffering numerous hardships throughout his life, Chief Seattle rose to become a respected leader and diplomat. Today, he is remembered for his efforts to protect Native American culture and fight for justice against the encroachment of European settlers.
The Origins of Chief Seattle
Chief Seattle was born in 1780 on the Kitsap Peninsula, located in present-day Washington state. He was a member of the Duwamish and Suquamish tribes, and his father was a respected chief named Schweabe. Growing up, Seattle had a unique perspective on the world due to his mixed heritage, which helped to shape his views on leadership and diplomacy later in life.
Early Life: Childhood and Family
Family Background and Early Years
Chief Seattle was born into a family of six siblings and was the second youngest. His father, Schweabe, was a chief of the Suquamish tribe, while his mother, Scholitza, was from the Duwamish tribe. As a child, Seattle was heavily influenced by his parents' cultural traditions and beliefs, which would later shape his leadership style.
Education and Cultural Traditions
As a young boy, Chief Seattle learned valuable skills from his parents, including fishing, hunting, and gathering. He was also exposed to important cultural traditions, such as spiritual beliefs and customs. These experiences helped to prepare Chief Seattle for the leadership role he would later assume within his tribe.
Leadership Role: Chief of the Suquamish and Duwamish tribes
Rise to Power: Becoming a Tribal Leader
After his father's death, Chief Seattle assumed the role of chief of the Suquamish tribe. He later became the chief of the Duwamish tribe as well. As a leader, Seattle was known for his diplomatic skills and ability to bring together different factions within his tribes. He was also a skilled orator, able to persuade others through his words.
Political and Social Contributions as Chief
Chief Seattle played an important role in protecting the interests of his people against the encroachment of European settlers. He negotiated with government officials on behalf of his tribes, helping to secure land and resources for his people. He also worked to preserve Native American culture and traditions, despite the attempts of settlers to suppress them.
Treaty Negotiations: Relationship with Settlers and the United States Government
The Arrival of European Settlers and their Impact on Native Americans
The arrival of European settlers had a significant impact on Native American communities, including Chief Seattle's tribes. The settlers brought with them diseases, such as smallpox, which decimated the Native American population. In addition, the settlers pushed Native Americans off their land, leading to violent conflicts between the two groups.
Chief Seattle's Role in Treaty Negotiations
Chief Seattle was a key figure in negotiating treaties between his tribes and the United States government. He was known for his ability to navigate complex political situations and advocate for the interests of his people. His most famous speech, given during negotiations for the Treaty of Point Elliott, is a powerful statement of his beliefs and values.
The Treaty of Point Elliott and its Consequences
The Treaty of Point Elliott, signed in 1855, granted the United States government rights to the land surrounding Seattle. The treaty also established reservations for Chief Seattle's tribes, protecting their rights to fish and hunt in designated areas. While the treaty provided some protections for Native Americans, it also resulted in the loss of ancestral lands and resources. Nonetheless, Chief Seattle's legacy as a skilled negotiator and leader endures to this day.
Speeches and Legacy: The Famous "Chief Seattle's Treaty" Speech and its Impact
The Context and Importance of the Speech
Chief Seattle, also known as Sealth, was a prominent leader of the Suquamish and Duwamish tribes in the Pacific Northwest during the mid-19th century. He was well-respected by his people and played a crucial role in the history of the region when he delivered a speech to Governor Isaac Stevens and other officials in 1854.
The speech, commonly known as "Chief Seattle's Treaty" speech, was given in response to the government's proposal to purchase Native American lands in the Pacific Northwest. Chief Seattle's words were powerful and eloquent, and his message struck a chord with many who heard it. The speech was later interpreted and shared, becoming a symbol of environmentalism, preservation of native cultures, and harmony between humans and the natural world.
The Content of the Speech and its Legacy
In the speech, Chief Seattle highlighted the importance of preserving the natural world, which he viewed as sacred and inseparable from human life. He spoke about the interconnectedness of all things and emphasized the need for harmony and balance in the relationship between humans and the environment. He also expressed his people's concerns about the government's proposed land purchase and the impact it would have on their way of life.
Chief Seattle's words resonated with many people and became a symbol for environmentalism, Native American culture, and the idea of preserving the natural world for future generations. The speech has been widely shared and interpreted in various ways, becoming one of the most famous and impactful speeches in history.
The Many Versions of the Speech and their Differences
There are many versions of Chief Seattle's speech, and they differ in content and interpretation. This is due in part to the fact that Chief Seattle did not speak English, and his words were translated and recorded by others. Additionally, it is possible that the speech was later adapted and changed by those who heard it or wrote it down.
Despite the variations, however, the speech's core ideas remain the same. Chief Seattle's message of environmentalism, connection to the natural world, and preservation of native cultures continues to inspire people around the world.
Death and Burial: The End of an Era
The Circumstances and Date of Chief Seattle's Death
Chief Seattle died on June 7, 1866, at the age of 76. Little is known about the circumstances of his death, but it is believed that he died peacefully in his home surrounded by family and loved ones.
The Funeral and Burial of Chief Seattle
Chief Seattle was buried in a traditional Suquamish and Duwamish ceremony, with family members and community members in attendance. His body was placed in a canoe, which was then set ablaze and sent out to sea, symbolizing his journey into the afterlife.
The death of Chief Seattle marked the end of an era for the Suquamish and Duwamish tribes. He was a prominent leader and respected figure, and his passing was deeply felt by his people.
Historical Significance: Chief Seattle's Influence on Native American and Environmental Movements
The Role of Chief Seattle's Speech in the Environmental Movement
Chief Seattle's speech played a critical role in inspiring the modern environmental movement. His emphasis on the interconnectedness of all things and the need for environmental harmony resonated with many people around the world. The speech has influenced environmental policies and campaigns, inspiring people to take action and protect the natural world.
The Influence of Chief Seattle on Native American Literature and Philosophy
Chief Seattle has also been an influential figure in Native American literature and philosophy. His message of environmentalism and preservation of native cultures has been celebrated by writers and thinkers throughout history. In particular, his speech has been a source of inspiration for many Native American writers, who have incorporated his ideas and legacy into their work.
Contemporary Relevance: The Continuing Legacy of Chief Seattle and his Philosophy
The Impact of Chief Seattle's Speech on Modern Society
Chief Seattle's speech continues to resonate with people around the world today. His message of environmentalism, preservation of native cultures, and harmony between humans and the natural world is more important than ever. His words have influenced policies and activism, and his legacy lives on through the many organizations and initiatives dedicated to protecting the environment and preserving native cultures.
Preservation and Restoration Efforts of Native American Culture and the Environment
In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on preserving and restoring native cultures and the environment. Many organizations and initiatives have emerged, dedicated to protecting the natural world and promoting Native American culture and traditions. Chief Seattle's legacy has played a significant role in inspiring these efforts, and his message continues to inspire people to take action and make a difference.In summary, Chief Seattle was a visionary leader who navigated the complex political and social landscape of his time with grace and wisdom. His famous words continue to resonate with people around the world, inspiring us to think more deeply about our relationship with the earth and with each other. By studying Chief Seattle's life and times, we gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of cross-cultural communication and leadership, as well as a renewed appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Native American communities.
FAQ
What was Chief Seattle's most famous speech?
Chief Seattle's most famous speech was given in the mid-1850s in response to a government offer to purchase his tribe's land. The speech, known as "Chief Seattle's Treaty" or "Chief Seattle's Response," is an eloquent plea for respect and conservation of the natural world.
What was Chief Seattle's philosophy?
Chief Seattle's philosophy, as expressed in his speeches and other writings, emphasized the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of living in harmony with nature. He saw the natural world as a sacred gift that must be cherished and protected, and believed that humans had a responsibility to care for it.
What was the Treaty of Point Elliott?
The Treaty of Point Elliott was an agreement signed in 1855 between the United States government and several Native American tribes, including the Suquamish and Duwamish tribes led by Chief Seattle. The treaty ceded large portions of tribal land to the government in exchange for certain guarantees, such as the right to fish and hunt on remaining tribal lands. The treaty had significant consequences for Native American communities, as it led to forced relocation and loss of traditional ways of life.
What is Chief Seattle's legacy today?
Chief Seattle's legacy extends beyond his lifetime, as his speeches and philosophy continue to inspire people around the world. His emphasis on environmental protection and respect for all life forms resonates particularly strongly today, as we face pressing global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss. In addition, Chief Seattle's legacy includes his role as a cultural and political leader, who worked tirelessly to protect the rights and well-being of his people in the face of historic injustices.
____________________________________
"Let him [the white man] bejust and kindly with my people, for the dead are not altogether powerless." (attributed to Seattle) 1780(?)-1866 A chief of the Duwamish tribe, whose name would become immortalized for all time in the great city named after him, Seattle also became famous for one particular speech, although there is controversy as to the content, context, and precise nature of the speech. Seattle-or Si'ahl-was born in the area of Blake Island, Washington. His mother was of the Duwamish and his father of the Suquamish. His position as chief was inherited from his maternal uncle, as was the tradition in a matrilineal tribe. Accounts of Seattle tell us that he was tall for one of his tribe, standing at almost 6 feet; he was given the nickname Le Gros, meaning "The Big One," by the European traders. A skilled orator, he also had the added vantage of a loud voice. He was a confident and skilled warrior, leading skirmishes against enemy peoples. It was a tradition among the Duwamish to make slaves of enemies that they captured. Seattle's first wife died after giving him a daughter; his second wife bore him seven children: four girls and three boys. His best-known child was his first daughter, Kikisoblu, who would become better known as Princess Angeline. In the late 1840s Seattle was baptized into the Catholic Church, taking the name of Noah Seattle. The town of DuWamps was changed to Seattle when Chief Seattle formed an alliance with the Europeans against the Patkanim tribe, who were making incursions onto the traditional sites where the Duwamish caught clams and other shellfish. After the Battle of Seattle in 1856. the Chief was reluctant to allow his people to relocate to the reservation that had been allotted them, since the Snohomish, their traditional enemies, were also going to be relocated there, and Seattle knew that this would lead to conflict. Instead, his people relocated to the Suquamish reservation in Washington, where he died in 1866. He was buried at the tribal cemetery there..
______________________
Tribe Duwamish
Born c. 1780 On or near Blake Island, Washington, U.S.
Died June 7, 1866 Port Madison, Washington, U.S.
Native name Si'ahl
Si’ahl's mother Sholeetsa was Dkhw’Duw’Absh (Duwamish) and his father Shweabe was chief of the Dkhw’Suqw'Absh (the Suquamish tribe). Si’ahl was born around 1780 on or near Blake Island, Washington. One source cites his mother's name as Wood-sho-lit-sa. The Duwamish tradition is that Si’ahl was born at his mother's Dkhw’Duw’Absh village of Stukw on the Black River, in what is now the city of Kent, and that Si'ahl grew up speaking both the Dkhw’Duw’Absh and Dkhw’Suqw'Absh dialects of Lushootseed. Because Native descent among the Salish peoples was not solely patrilineal, Si'ahl inherited his position as chief of the Dkhw’Duw’Absh or Suquamish Tribe from his maternal uncle. In later years, Si’ahl claimed to have seen the ships of the Vancouver Expedition as they explored Puget Sound.
Si’ahl earned his reputation at a young age as a leader and a warrior, ambushing and defeating groups of enemy raiders coming up the Green River from the Cascade foothills, and attacking the Chimakum and the S'Klallam, tribes living on the Olympic Peninsula. Like many of his contemporaries, he owned slaves captured during his raids. He was tall and broad for a Puget Sound native at nearly six feet; Hudson's Bay Company traders gave him the nickname Le Gros (The Big One). He was also known as an orator; and when he addressed an audience, his voice is said to have carried from his camp to the Stevens Hotel at First and Marion, a distance of 3⁄4 miles (1.2 km).
He took wives from the village of Tola'ltu just southeast of Duwamish Head on Elliott Bay (now part of West Seattle). His first wife La-Dalia died after bearing a daughter. He had three sons and four daughters with his second wife, Olahl. The most famous of his children was his first, Kikisoblu or Princess Angeline. Si’ahl was baptized in the Roman Catholic Church, and given the baptismal name Noah, probably in 1848 near Olympia, Washington. The meaning of this ceremony may be called into question by his references to his people's gods in his most famous Talk.
For all his skill, Si’ahl was gradually losing ground to the more powerful Patkanim of the Snohomish when white settlers started showing up in force. When his people were driven from their traditional clamming grounds, Si’ahl met Maynard in Olympia; they formed a friendly relationship useful to both. Persuading the settlers at Duwamps to rename the town Seattle, Maynard established their support for Si’ahl's people and negotiated relatively peaceful relations among the tribes.
Si’ahl kept his people out of the Battle of Seattle (1856). Afterwards, he was unwilling to lead his tribe to the reservation established, since mixing Duwamish and Snohomish was likely to lead to bloodshed. Maynard persuaded the government of the necessity of allowing Si’ahl to remove to his father's longhouse on Agate Passage, 'Old Man House' or Tsu-suc-cub. Si’ahl frequented the town named after him, and had his photograph taken by E. M. Sammis in 1865. He died June 7, 1866, on the Suquamish reservation at Port Madison, Washington.
_____________________
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chief_Seattle
"When the Earth is sick, the animals will begin to disappear, when that happens, The Warriors of the Rainbow will come to save them. " - Chief Seattle [Seatlh], Suquamish Chief
"There is no death. Only a change of worlds.” - Chief Seattle [Seatlh], Suquamish Chief
"All things share the same breath - the beast, the tree, the man, the air shares its spirit with all the life it supports.” - Chief Seattle, Suquamish Chief
“If all the beasts were gone,
men would die
from a great loneliness of spirit,
for whatever happens to the beasts
also happens to the man.
All things are connected.
Whatever befalls the Earth
befalls the sons of the Earth.”
Chief Seattle
The quote at the head of this entry is an extract from the controversial speech involving Seattle. Consensus of opinion says that the occasion of the speech was March 1 1 , 1854, in the then-town of Seattle. A public meeting had been called by the governor of the town to discuss the sale of Native lands to European settlers. Seattle was asked to speak on the subject, and here the real controversy arises. EVidently Seattle spoke with passion and at some length, in the Lushootseed tongue, which was translated into Chinook and then into English. The speech was only written down in English some years after the event, by one Henry A. Smith. who had taken notes at the time. In Smith's version, Seattle thanked the Europeans for their generosity, and also compared the Christian god to the Native god. Smith himself admitted that he had noted only a small part of the speech, and what he wrote is rather florid. The speech has subsequently been rewritten by others who could not possibly know what was actually said, although it has been described as ??a powerful, bittersweet plea for respect for Native American rights and environmental values."