The Cumberland Settlements

Front

What was the Transylvania Land Company?

Back

A company formed in 1775 to buy land on and around the Cumberland River, hoping to sell it later for a higher price.

Front

How much land did the Transylvania Land Company purchase?

Back

More than 20 million acres, which today comprises middle Tennessee and part of Kentucky.

Front

What was the Transylvania Purchase?

Back

A treaty with the Cherokee Indians at Sycamore Shoals where the Transylvania Land Company paid about $50,000 in goods for land.

Front

Who were tasked with founding the Cumberland Settlements?

Back

James Robertson and John Donelson.

Front

What was James Robertson's role in the Cumberland Settlements?

Back

He led a group from the Watauga Settlement to select a settlement site on the Cumberland River, founding Fort Nashborough.

Front

What was John Donelson's contribution to the Cumberland Settlements?

Back

He arrived with 30 families in 1780, bringing supplies and tools, traveling along a network of rivers.

Front

What was the Cumberland Compact?

Back

A basis of government for the Cumberland Settlement drawn up by settlement leaders.

Front

What obstacles did Donelson's group face?

Back

Cold weather, rough waters, an outbreak of smallpox, and attacks by the Chickamauga Indians.

Front

What was the Battle of the Bluffs?

Back

An attack in April 1781 by the Chickamauga Indians, led by Dragging Canoe, against the settlers.

Front

What was the reaction of the Cherokee people to the settlers?

Back

They were confused and concerned, wondering what to do as the land was their home.