200 years ago today, in what is now called Moraviantown, Ontario, the great Shawnee warrior, Tecumseh was killed defending Canada against invading American troops during the War of 1812. After waging a fearsome battle with the encroaching American militia for over five years, Tecumseh had struck terror in the hearts of American settlers, soldiers and commanders alike. His alliance with the British General, Isaac Brock, and their victory at Detroit, decisively shifted the early momentum in the War to Canada’s favour. No longer could the Americans boast that victory would be (as Thomas Jefferson promised then President James Madison) “a mere matter of marching.” Indeed, it can be said that it was Tecumseh – as much as any other single individual – who saved Canada in the War of 1812.
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You know what makes me mad? The grandeur of the Isaac Brock monument compared to the modest aboriginal memorial at Queenston Heights.
Brock's monument is typical of the ones the Brits put up for their war heroes.
ReplyDeleteTecumseh's treatment is also typical, but of the Brit's treatment of the colonial natives all over the world.
Canada inherited the fallout from British attitudes and actions.
Typically disgraceful.
ReplyDeleteOne of the greatest generals of our Civil War was named after Tecumseh.
ReplyDeleteI'm less certain that Tecumseh or Brock saved Canada during the War of 1812. The odds of the US taking Upper Canada were decent, but holding it would have been nearly impossible. Jefferson was a fool to think otherwise.
"Jefferson was a fool to think otherwise."
ReplyDeleteBut he was smart enough to know it would be easier than spanking King George. ;o)