Chief Seathle
Read the letter from Chief Seathle to President
Franklin Pierce in 1855 with a partner. After reading
discuss the following questions for discussion
 Which parts of Chief Seathle’s letter do you feel
are most valid? Which do you feel were the least
valid?
 How do you think the U.S. Government might
respond to this letter?
 Why was conflict inevitable between Native
Americans and the United States in the 1800’s?
 What would have been the most equitable way to
resolve the conflict?
Name____________________
Date_____
Point- Counterpoint
Write a paragraph on how you think the United States government
might have responded to Chief Seathle’s statements. Use your
knowledge of Manifest Destiny and U.S. land policy in the 1800’s to
help formulate your response.
"The President in Washington sends word that he wishes to buy our land. But
how can you buy or sell the sky? the land? The idea is strange to us. If we do
not own the freshness of the air and the sparkle of the water, how can you
buy them?
Every part of the earth is sacred to my people. Every shining pine needle,
every sandy shore, every mist in the dark woods, every meadow, every
humming insect. All are holy in the memory and experience of my people.”
How would the U.S. government respond to this?