Treaty of Washington (1836)

Quick Facts: Who was Treaty of Washington (1836)?

Subject:

Treaty of Washington (1836)

Known for:

1836 treaty ceding vast Michigan lands from Ottawa and Chippewa to the US.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Foundation

The Treaty of Washington was a significant agreement established between the United States government and representatives from the Ottawa and Chippewa Native American nations. This treaty marked a major cession of ancestral lands, compelling the tribes to relinquish an immense tract of territory. The ceded area was located in the northwest portion of Michigan's Lower Peninsula and the eastern part of its Upper Peninsula. This transaction represented a substantial portion, estimated at 37%, of the land that constitutes modern-day Michigan.

Breakthrough & Iconic Era

The formal conclusion and signing of this pivotal treaty occurred on March 28, 1836, within the confines of Washington D.C. Key figures involved in the signing included Henry Schoolcraft, who served as the Indian Commissioner for the United States. Representatives from the Native American side, such as Odawa leader Augustin Hamlin Jr., were also present to finalize the terms. Although signed in March, the treaty was officially proclaimed to the public on a later date, May 27, 1836, solidifying its legal standing.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The geographical scope defined by the treaty's boundaries was extensive, beginning at the mouth of the Grand River on the north side. From there, the boundary followed the river eastward until it intersected lines established by prior agreements, notably the 1821 Treaty of Chicago. This treaty fundamentally altered the historical land ownership patterns in the Great Lakes region, leaving a lasting impact on the demographics and governance of Michigan.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1821: 1821 Milestone — From there, the boundary followed the river eastward until it intersected lines established by prior agreements, notably the 1821 Treaty of Chicago.
2. 1836: 1836 Milestone — The formal conclusion and signing of this pivotal treaty occurred on March 28, 1836, within the confines of Washington D.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Treaty of Washington (1836)

True or False: “True or false: The Treaty of Washington caused the Ottawa and Chippewa nations to cede approximately 37% of the current land area of Michigan.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): The treaty required the cession of a vast area, representing roughly 37% of the land that now constitutes the state of Michigan.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Aaron Burr — Historical peer (Died in 1836) (1836): American politician, lawyer, and statesman known for his role in the Jeffersonian era.
• André-Marie Ampère — Historical peer (Died in 1836) (1836): Founder of classical electromagnetism; inventor of the solenoid and electrical telegraph.
• Aleksey Pisemsky — Historical peer (Born in 1821) (1821): A prominent Russian novelist and dramatist, contemporary to Turgenev and Dostoyevsky.
• Arthur Cayley — Historical peer (Born in 1821) (1821): Pioneering English mathematician, instrumental in founding modern algebra and group theory.

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