Puget Sound War - Washington Territory

Overview

• The war in Washington Territory lasted about half a year, starting around mid-1855.
• Winter hindered troop movements, typical of 19th-century warfare.
• Native American tribes, familiar with the wilderness, prepared for engagement.

Prelude to the Battle of Seattle (January 26th, 1856)

• Governor Stevens underestimated the threat of Native attacks on Seattle.
• Native tribes, including the Nisqually under Chief Leschi, prepared for an attack on Seattle.
• Rumors of an attack spread, prompting defensive preparations.

Battle of Seattle

• Occurred on January 26th, led by Chief Leschi.
• Tribes from varying backgrounds participated.
• The U.S. warship Decatur bombarded Native positions.
• The battle lasted a day; U.S. reported two deaths, Native casualties varied.

Aftermath

• Governor Stevens called for the extermination of hostile Native Americans.
• American forces and civilians raided peaceful Native settlements.
• Natives were placed in camps, stripped of resources.
• Snoqualmie raided Leschi's camp, resulting in their defeat, Leschi escaped.

Political and Social Impact

• Governor Stevens enforced martial law against anti-war Americans, leading to judicial conflict.
• Judge Edward Lander was arrested by militia under Stevens' orders, but later released.
• National response included Stevens' censure by the Secretary of State.

Further Conflicts

• March 1856: White River Valley engagements; U.S. troops clashed with Klickitat and other tribes.
• Battle of Connell's Prairie was a decisive moment.
• U.S. gained control over key regions, but hostilities persisted.

Yakama Conflict

• Yakama attack at Cascades Rapids resulted in settler and soldier deaths.
• U.S. response was severe, leading to further Native casualties.

Attempts at Peace

• Governor Stevens called for the Second Walla Walla Council, aiming to end hostilities.
• Negotiations failed due to Stevens’ unwillingness to concede land to tribes.
• Final engagement as Governor Stevens was attacked but protected by Colonel Steptoe.

Conclusion

• Council of Fox Island led to adjustments in reservations but failed to capture Chief Leschi.
• Leschi, after negotiations, was betrayed and captured, unjustly tried, and executed.
• Hostilities ceased briefly but tensions remained high in the region.