Overview
This lecture covers the history of the Seminole people in Florida, detailing their origins, resistance to removal, cultural adaptations, and modern economic development.
Origins and Early History
- The Seminoles formed from remnants of various tribes and Creek Indians migrating into Florida in the 18th century.
- The term "Seminole" was applied by outsiders to any Native people living in Florida.
- Runaway slaves joined the Seminoles, contributing agricultural skills and military strength.
Seminole Wars and Resistance
- The First Seminole War (1817-1818) was sparked by disputes over escaped slaves and cattle.
- Andrew Jackson invaded Spanish Florida, leading to U.S. control of the territory.
- The Indian Removal Act of 1830 led to the forced relocation of Seminoles, resisted in the Second Seminole War (1835-1842).
- Disease and difficult terrain limited U.S. military success; most Seminoles were removed, but some remained unconquered.
- The Third Seminole War (1855-1858) further reduced Seminole numbers, but a small group persisted in Florida.
Post-War Survival and Adaptation
- Seminoles avoided reservations and continued a semi-nomadic life in the Everglades.
- White settlers and land development projects encroached on Seminole territory.
- Trading posts were established, providing vital economic outlets for the Seminoles.
Environmental and Economic Changes
- Drainage of the Everglades in the early 1900s disrupted traditional livelihoods.
- The Seminole Indian Association was formed to advocate for their rights and land.
- Seminole women developed patchwork clothing, generating income from crafts.
Tourism and Road Construction
- Seminoles participated in tourist exhibitions and crafts sales, including alligator wrestling.
- Construction of the Tamiami Trail offered jobs but also opened the Everglades to development.
- By 1930, over half the Seminole population were involved in tourism-related businesses.
Federal Policies and Tribal Organization
- Economic hardship during the Great Depression led some Seminoles to accept aid and move to reservations.
- New Deal programs helped revive Seminole cattle ranching.
- Tensions existed over the cultural impact of tourist villages.
Modern Economic Enterprises
- In the late 20th century, Seminoles leveraged tax-free tobacco sales and pioneered Indian gaming with high-stakes bingo.
- Tribal governments reinvested profits into ecotourism, agriculture, and further business ventures.
- The Seminole Tribe of Florida became highly successful, notably acquiring Hard Rock International in 2006.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Seminole — A Native American group formed in Florida from various tribes and the Creek.
- Everglades — A vast marshland in southern Florida and home to the Seminoles.
- Indian Removal Act — 1830 U.S. law forcing Native Americans west of the Mississippi.
- Tamiami Trail — A road connecting Tampa and Miami, impacting Seminole land.
- Patchwork — Distinctive Seminole textile art used for clothing.
- Mikasuki — A tribe related to the Seminoles with shared and unique cultural traits.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the causes and consequences of each Seminole War.
- Study the effects of land development and tourism on Seminole culture.
- Understand the impact of federal policies on Seminole economic and political organization.