The Northwest Territory: Washington’s Gamble and the Native Resistance

Post-independence America faced significant challenges, including debt and political turmoil. The Articles of Confederation limited government power, prompting the drafting of a new constitution. In the Northwest Territory, expansion plans clashed with Native American resistance, leading to violence. The US government imposed treaties on Native tribes, but resistance persisted. President Washington, facing internal and external pressures, authorized military action to secure the territory, despite the army's limitations.

What was one of the main reasons for drafting a new US Constitution?

• To abolish the federal government

• To reduce national debt

• To strengthen the executive branch

• To increase the power of the states

What was the US government's plan for the Northwest Territory?

• To sell the land to settlers to pay off debts

• To return the land to Native American tribes

• To establish a new military base

• To create a new state

Which tribes were part of the Northwestern Confederacy?

• Cherokee and Seminole

• Miami, Shawnee, and Lenape

• Iroquois and Mohawk

• Apache and Navajo

What was George Washington's stance on dealing with Native Americans?

• He aimed to deal honorably but prioritized expansion

• He wanted to avoid any conflict

• He planned to relocate them to other territories

• He sought to form alliances with all tribes

Who led the US Army's punitive expedition in 1790?

• General Benedict Arnold

• General Josiah Harmar

• General George Washington

• General Henry Knox

What was a significant challenge faced by Harmar's expedition?

• Strong alliances with European powers

• Overwhelming support from Native tribes

• Excessive military resources

• Lack of experienced frontiersmen

What was the composition of Harmar's forces?

• Professional soldiers from the Continental Army

• Militiamen from Kentucky and Pennsylvania

• European mercenaries

• Native American allies