Undoubtedly we have wronged many tribes; but equally undoubtedly our first definite knowledge of many others has been derived from their unprovoked outrages upon our people.

The Chippewas, Ottawas, and Pottawatamies furnished hundreds of young warriors to the parties that devastated our frontiers generations before we in any way encroached upon or wronged them.
Mere outrages could be atoned for or settled; the question which lay at the root of our difficulties was that of the occupation of the land itself, and to this there could be no solution save war.

The Indians had no ownership of the land in the way in which we understand the term.

The tribes lived far apart; each had for its hunting-grounds all the territory from which it was not barred by rivals.

Each looked with jealousy upon all interlopers, but each was prompt to act as an interloper when occasion offered.