The Probert Encyclopaedia of Warfare

SEMINOLE WAR

The Seminoles 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 Seminoles. The combined British and Indian stronghold - the Negro Fort, on the Appalachicola - was a constant menace to Georgia. During 1817, there were constant collisions and massacres of the whites. General Gaines accomplished little. Florida was then held by Spain. In January, 1818, Andrew Jackson was given command, and in less than six months had carried out genocide of the Seminoles, burning their towns and slaying them day after day. Ambrister and Arbuthnot, English adventurers working for the Spanish and Indians, were summarily hanged.

Pensacola was captured and the whole of East Florida was taken possession of. After the acquisition of Florida, many slaves fled to the Seminoles. The American Government endeavored to recover them, and to force the Seminoles to remove to the West.

War with the Seminoles ensued and was carried on with severity on both sides. General Thompson, the US agent, finding their chiefs opposed to migration, put Osceola in chains. War followed and Osceola killed Thompson and others at Fort King on December the 28th, 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 in 1842. By a treaty of 1845 the Seminoles were removed west of the Mississippi; in 1856 they were assigned lands west of the Creeks. Remaining Indians in Florida, however, never signed a peace treaty and at the end of the 20th century were still pursuing a peaceful 'war' through the courts of America in pursuit of reclaiming their lands which had been stolen by force.
Research Seminole War