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Chief Pontiac
(1720 –1769)
Warriors Citation
Pontiac or Obwandiyagwas an Ottawa warrior leader who became famous for his role in Pontiac's Rebellion (1763–1766),
a Native American struggle against the British military occupation of the Great Lakes region following the British victory
in the French and Indian War. Historians disagree about Pontiac's importance in the war that bears his name. Nineteenth century
accounts portrayed him as the mastermind and leader of the revolt, while some subsequent interpretations have depicted him
as a local leader with limited overall influence. The war began in May 1763 when Pontiac and 300 warriors attempted to take
Fort Detroit by surprise. His plan foiled, Pontiac laid siege to the fort, and was eventually joined by more than 900 warriors
from a half-dozen tribes.
Meanwhile, messengers spread the word of the Pontiac's actions, and the war expanded far beyond Detroit. In July 1763, Pontiac
defeated a British detachment at the Battle of Bloody Run, but he was unable to capture the fort. In October he lifted the
siege and withdrew to the Illinois country. Although Pontiac's influence had declined around Detroit because of the unsuccessful
siege, he gained stature in the Illinois and Wabash country as he continued to encourage resistance to the British. Seeking
to end the war, British officials made Pontiac the focus of their diplomatic efforts. In July 1766, Pontiac made peace with
British Superintendent of Native American Affairs Sir William Johnson. The attention which the British paid to Pontiac created
resentment among other Native American leaders, particularly because Pontiac claimed far greater authority than he actually
possessed. Increasingly ostracized, in 1769 he was assassinated by a Peoria tribe member. From: historical accounts & records
LINK TO BRAVEHORSE WARRIORS VOLUME TWO
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