I've chosen a letter from the Governor of Georgia in 1760 to the Creek Native American people asking for their allegiance in a conflict with the Cherokee people. I thought this a valuable insight into Anglo-American and Native American relations during early settlement because it shows the manipulative stance that the British adopted towards indigenous peoples. The language that Henry Ellis uses is extremely persuasive while remaining domineering throughout, all the time suggesting that the settlers have been so kind to the Creeks in allowing them to be neighbors. That they should be thankful that they brought them 'The Great King's Talk' and 'took care' of them becomes condescending and reveals how lowly a view the Anglo-Americans have of the natives. You wonder if he would be so friendly and nice if there was no help required?
On the other hand this letter shows that beyond trade and war the two cultures were able to live side-by-side in certain situations in amicable peace for sustained periods of time.
"When you Met me last we mutually renewed our old Treaties, settled all differences then [unclear: depending]; strengthened and Brightened our Chain of Friendship; and made the path straight between us. -- You then declared we should be one people for ever; you engaged -- that our Friends should be your Friends, and our Enemies, you would treat as your Enemies. -- I have not sent you one bad or Bloody Talk since I have resided here."
This shows that their agreements and peace treaties have been established for years and that there is clearly a lot of amicable feeling between them. It also displays the assimilation of cultures through the use by the white Governor of Native American interpretations of the western language. Ellis knows that thoughts, feelings and meanings will be conveyed in a clearer manner this way and understanding of what he wants will be greater.
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