Treaty 6 peoples have also protected their treaty rights through land claims and lawsuits. Big Bear heard of the disharmony in Treaty 4 territory, they found that the promises of the treaty were not being honored by the government (Dodson 20). It was required to distinguish themselves during a war, as a provider, and as a generous giver to gain this position. Sweet Grass had also requested that the government provide supplies as needed so that they may sustain themselves when traditional hunting was not an option. We heard our lands were sold and we did not like it; we don't want to sell our lands; it is our property, and no one has the right to sell them. In the 1970s and 1980s, the Indian Association of Alberta and the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations conducted reports that outlined elders views on the treaty and on the concept of land cession. Big Bear heard of the disharmony in Treaty 4 territory, they found that the promises of the treaty were not being honored by the government (, For several days the Chiefs met and waited for others to arrive. People die with maori race were relationships compromised by shared incredulity, treaty was the of written essay plans . Make provision for us against years of starvation. On 27 July 1876, Morris left for Fort Carlton to negotiate a treaty with the Plains Indigenous peoples of Saskatchewan. It remained to be seen whether it was a bad omen. In exchange for Indigenous title to their land (see Indigenous Territory), Treaty 6 provided: an annual cash payment of $25 per chief; $15 per headman and $5 for all other band members; a one-time cash payment of $12 for each band member; and reserve lands in the amount of one mile2 (about 2.5 km2) per family of five. Sadly, in the face of starvation and the inevitable settlement of their lands, Little Pine eventually signed an adhesion to Treaty 6 on July 2, 1879. Our young men are foolish, it may not last long. [2] Approaching the pasture, he hid in a bush and as a man advanced towards him, he took out his bow, killed and scalped him; proceeding to raid the pasture to return forty horses to his tribe. However, this likely happened because he was born in a Cree Camp. Before negotiations began, the Cree performed a sacred pipe ceremony, in which the commissioners participated. The Treaty was passed on orally and was not recorded until 1880 (Roberts 90). By 1870 Canada was made up of four provinces: Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. [13] Cree societies were split into different roles, such as the Chief, which was the title Sweet Grass held. Chief Sweetgrass (Weekaskookwasayin) signed Treaty 6 on September 9, 1876, with the Fort Pitt Indians but was killed about six months later. Please note that this form is not intended to provide customer service. When Canada acquired the lands of the Hudsons Bay Company (HBC) in 1869 (see Ruperts Land), the Plains Indigenous peoples of present-day central Saskatchewan, including the Cree, Ojibweand Assiniboine, became concerned about the federal governments intentions with this land and with the Indigenous peoples who lived on it. Other members of the negotiating team included treaty commissioners William Joseph Christie (an HBC officer) and. As the treaty process never included women in the discussion it ignored an important cultural pressure. He was succeeded by his son, Apseenes (Young Sweet Grass); he was unable to hold the band together, which began to splinter. He worked with other chiefs and bands to participate in raids with enemy tribes. Treaties were signed with First Nations in Canada between 1871 and 1921. The federal government was not interested in negotiating a treaty at this time, believing that it was not essential, even though local missionaries and government agents tried to convince them otherwise. To cede land (the act of cession) is to give up or surrender the authority to control and own that land. According to Erasmus, Mistawasis and Ahtukukoop essentially silenced Pitikwahanapiwiyin and other dissenters. Treaty 6, between the Queen and bands of Cree and Stoney First Nations, was negotiated and signed at Fort Carlton and Duck Lake in August, and at Fort Pitt in September, 1876. In the summer of 1875, messengers from the Canadian government came to Cree territory to inform them that the government would be coming to negotiate a Treaty with them the following summer of 1876. I for one will take the hand that is offered. Ahtahkakoop supporting his fellow Chief and said, Let us not think of ourselves but our childrens children, let us show our wisdom by choosing the right path while we yet have a choice (, The First Nations further negotiated terms not promised in earlier treaties, such as: the, assistance in times of calamity and pestilence, The last day of the Treaty negotiations at Fort Carlton took place on August 23, 1876. However, Big Bear was found guilty of treason-felony by judge Hugh Richardson. Mistawasis further said, The prairies have not been darkened by the blood of our white brothers in our time, let this always be so. It was a tough decision to make. Mistahimaskwa was frustrated and surprised that the other chiefs had not waited for him to return before concluding the negotiations. In the face of survival, the Cree started to assemble and meet with one another to discuss their approach to the government. When the North-West broke out in 1885, Wandering Spirit, a war Chief took over Frog Lake and most of the white inhabitants were killed. [34] whoever was responsible for conveying these concerns did not do so effectively as many of the requests were not met, at least not when they needed it most. [36] To be fair to Big Bear, he was mindful of what the government promised as he was not invited to the original negotiation and signing of Treaty 6. The aim of peace and friendship treaties (1725-1779) to stabilize trade and relations. [3] Upon reporting his sighting back to the others, they decide to kill the man and steal his horses. Big Bear resisted signing of the treaty, hoping that he could hold out for a better deal with the Canadian government. In 1870 Sweetgrass allowed himself to be baptized and was given the name Abraham.[28]. Death. "Big Bear, Ahtahkakoop, and Mistawasis were the most vocal leaders to stop the developments on their lands. The ceremony ended with dancing, drums, and singing of the men and women in the background (. On 9 September, Weekaskookwasayin addressed the people, arguing that the treaty terms would help preserve and protect their livelihood. Chief Sweetgrass arrived the next day and met with the rest of the First Nations to discuss what had happened at Fort Carlton. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. This treaty was called the Great Law of Peace of the People of the Longhouse and predates the year 1450. The buffalo was the plains First Nations livelihood: their source of food, shelter, clothing, and trading goods. Website Development Studio. Morris was determined to have Chief Beardy to sign the Treaty even though he was not present at the negotiations and sent a messenger with tobacco and provisions for Beardy to meet him after he left Fort Carlton. In Morris address he described the governments genuine concern for the welfare of their Indian brothers and sisters and asked them to take his words with much thought and to look to the future, what I will promise, and what I believe and hope you will take, is to last as long as the sun shines and yonder rivers flow. (, During discussions, Gov. It is ours and we will take what we want. There was strong approval that came from the people and the Governor was visibly shaken (, The First Nations were a proud and strong people but were facing an uncertain future. However, Morris told the Cree that they would find themselves crowded by settlers unless they settled on reserves. He was succeeded by his son, Apseenes (Young Sweet Grass); he was unable to hold the band together, which began to splinter. It is ours and we will take what we want. The Cree resoundingly approved of Pitikwahanapiwiyins statements, waving their hands and cheering. Chief Sweet Grass (Weekaskookwasayin) signed Treaty 6 on . Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Morris reassured the First Nations that their way of life and survival would not be disturbed and guaranteed well into the future. Even more important, the Chiefs felt that the Treaties would impose European values on the Cree. Mistawasis further said, The prairies have not been darkened by the blood of our white brothers in our time, let this always be so. One of the main questions is whether the signatories truly understood the concept of land cession. Big Bear stands tall in the memory of the Cree Nation as a proud and truly visionary leader who fought against the forces of Canadian colonialism and ultimately suffered for his Nation. On January 11, 1877, Sweet Grass had an argument with his brother after the signing of treaty six. The City of Edmonton and the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations co-hosted the first Treaty No. [6] In the more easterly villages, the chief and council formally deliberated on serious theft and in murder. Christie, the officer in charge of the Hudsons Bay Company for the Saskatchewan District. [26] He was unable to hold the band together, which began to splinter. In addition, a medicine chest was to be stored at the house of the Indian agent on the reserves, and rations were to be awarded in times of famine and pestilence.. In another instance, Sweet Grass had invited the Blackfoot into his camp in an attempt to begin a long-standing peace with them. The First Nations were a proud and strong people but were facing an uncertain future. The perpetrators of the massacre would be apprehended and tried for murder and hung in 1885.[51]. The Treaty party left Fort Pitt and made their way back to Fort Garry. Who negotiated Treaty 6? The significance of the ceremony was an invitation to the Creator to witness the proceedings and provide guidance; it also signified that it committed the participants into telling the truth. Many people would leave the reserve due to government policies to limit food rations. He raised the stem to the heavens, then slowly turned to the north, south, east, and west - presenting the stem at each point. Until recent memory, the Plains Cree were masters of their territory, which included much of present-day central Saskatchewan and Alberta. Dempsey argues that if Mistahimaskwa had been present at the negotiations, the treaty commissioners would have likely had a more difficult time acquiring Indigenous approval of Treaty 6. The amount of power wielded by Cree chiefs varied from person to person. For example, in May 2008, the Beaver Lake Cree Nation in Alberta filed a lawsuit against the provincial and federal governments because proposed oil, gas, forestry and mining activities threatened their rights to hunt and fish on treaty lands; the case is still ongoing. Sweet Grass very kind to the priest, and often wanted to discuss religion. At the beginning of 1870, buffalo were plentiful within the plains. First Nations were alarmed at the various newcomers coming onto their lands and conducting geological surveys for telegraph lines, the railway, and lands for settlement (Tobias 191). [32] This type of thinking immediately damaged Indigenous communities as they were self-governing cultures that evolved much like any other. [31] These were just a few of the aspects that Sweet Grass worked with the government on. He also agreed to give agricultural implements. In order to attract the governments attention, in July 1875, the Cree stopped members of the Geological Survey in North Saskatchewan from moving any farther through their territory. The Dominion of Canada bought Ruperts Land for the sum of 300,000 pounds from the Hudsons Bay Company on March 8, 1869 and at the same time the Crown transferred North West territories to Canada. Our Legacy Treaties: Negotiations and Rights, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada Typed Transcript of Treaty 6 Text, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada Map of Canada in 1876, The Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations Learn More About Treaty 6 Indigenous Peoples, The Encyclopedia of Saskatchewan Treaty 6. Treaty 6 peoples have also protected their treaty rights through land claims and lawsuits. The First Nations interpreted the loss of the buffalo to be the general famine covered under the famine clause of Treaty 6, and many observers in the North-West agreed. The negotiations began at a traditional camping area the Crees called pehonanik or the waiting place, located a mile and half from the Fort (Stonechild and Waiser 12). Chief Beardy then refused to be part of the negotiations at Fort Carlton and Morris understood this would be a problem to the Treaty process for the Willow Cree(Stonechild and Waiser 11). Amendments to the Indian Act in 1985 re-established Indian status to over 750 members of the band. In the face of survival, the Cree started to assemble and meet with one another to discuss their approach to the government. By this time, the only known buffalo herds left were located in the Cypress Hills. In the west, Ruperts land was owned by the Hudsons Bay Company and the North West Territories was owned by the British Crown. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. If the chief remained silent, the murderer was usually executed by the victim's relatives. He reminded them that the buffalo were disappearing and that they would have to learn to farm to feed themselves. Land title refers to specific rights to a territory. After meeting with the First Nation Chiefs, Christie wrote a letter at their request and on their behalf to Lieutenant-Governor Archibald to state what the leaders were asking for and their concerns. Medals, flags, and uniforms were presented as well as treaty payments. Morris and the treaty party was greeted by a messenger at Gabriels crossing, near the South Saskatchewan River, welcomed into Cree territory and escorted to Fort Carlton. Chief Vernon Watchmaker [52] In Cree cultural the chiefs do not always hold the legal right to make choices for the entire band. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". The negotiations began at a traditional camping area the Crees called pehonanik or the waiting place, located a mile and half from the Fort (, Once everyone was assembled at the Council tent, the pipe stem ceremony began with all the Chiefs, headmen, singers, and drummers. The group would then move to capture Fort Pit. Also, he did not want his people to be under the rule of the Crown, and said to the people, I heard the Governor was coming and I said I shall see him; when I see him I will make a request that he will save me from what I most dread that is: the rope to be about my neck. Big Bear, a proud Cree, was using a metaphor to describe that he did not want to be treated like a horse, to be broken to a halter and rope (Ray, Miller and Tough 142). By the early 1870s, the plains First Nations were suffering. He was succeeded by his son, Apseenes (Young Sweet Grass). Governor Morris addressed the crowd and asked Erasmus to interpret for him, Erasmus answered back, I act on behalf of the Chiefs; I am not employed by the government. McKay translated but was stopped when Chief Mistawasis stood up and said We are Plains Cree and demand to be spoken to in our language. Then Ballenden proceeded to translate, however, people in the back of the crowd complained they could not hear him, he tried to speak louder, choked and then sat down (Ray, Miller, and Tough 134). The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". In 1862, Sweet Grass accompanied Broken Arm, who was known for his ability to broker peace, along with fifty escorts to finally make peace with the Blackfoot. They were unaware of the negotiations at Fort Carlton and thought they would not be coming for another month or so. Our team will be reviewing your submission and get back to you with any further questions. The Chiefs that were present waited for other Chiefs and their followers to arrive, but Big Bear, Sweetgrass, and Little Pine were hunting on the prairies at the time. What was chief mistawasis Role in Treaty 6? The treaty boundaries extend across central portions of present-day Alberta and Saskatchewan. [4] His name, Sweet Grass was inspired by an audacious feat that he attempted as a youth. Sweetgrass is also one of the herbs frequently included in medicine bundles and amulets. to the signing of a treaty had strong cultural and spiritual significance. The First Nations knew that treaties were being negotiated to the east of them and wanted to speak with the government about their future (Miller, Ray and Tough 135). Included would be a medicine chest kept at the Indian Agents homes for the use of the First Nations but at the discretion of the Indian Agent. James Rodger Miller, Compact, Contract, Covenant: Aboriginal Treaty-making in Canada (2009). He was unable to hold the band together, which began to splinter. Morris then explained to the group that the Crown would create reserves for their people and would assist them in farming initiatives, without interfer[ing] with their present mode of living. Morris never explicitly discussed the concept of land cession. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Mistawasis had one last request and wanted to know how the Half-Breeds would be taken care of, as some had lived amongst them. We want you to stop the Americans from coming to trade on our lands, and giving firewater, ammunition, and arms to our enemies the Blackfeet. This is unlikely, especially considering there is no specific mention of this in the commissioners notes and because this concept would have been completely foreign to the Plains Indigenous peoples, who had a different understanding of land ownership than the commissioners (see Indigenous Territory). He ventured into the Blackfoot territory, completely alone with the goal of capturing a herd of horses. Sweet Grass along with three other Chiefs attempted to get ahead of government control by meeting with the representative of the Canadian government in the west Lieutenant Governor Archibald to petition the Hudson's Bay Company's (HBC) sale of land to the government. Signed in 1876, Treaty 6 was the agreement between the government of Canada and the Indigenous people living in parts of modern-day Saskatchewan and Alberta. Why is there no mention as an important key change the Accou. After the ceremony, Morris explained that the government sent him to Fort Carlton to create an agreement with the Cree that would endure as long as that sun shines and yonder river flows. In order to do so, however, he required all of the chiefs and community leaders in the area to be present. [18] Chiefs within Cree society were chosen by the consent of the band. Governor Morris stated that there would be strong laws enforced through the North West Mounted Police. What was the outcome of Chief Sweetgrass signing Treaty 6? (Dedicated this 16thday of July 1993 by the Cree Nation)". This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The Indigenous leaders then held council for the rest of the day. However, the Cree had a process to which they named their children. Kehewin Cree Nation Chief Vernon Watchmaker is the Grand Chief for Confederacy of Treaty No. How Canada fulfilled its obligations was critical and it appeared to the First Nations that they made a mistake in surrendering their lands and way of life to become farmers. Morris said little to ease the concerns of Beardy and promised that they too would receive the same as the other bands including agricultural assistance for a new way of life. There were also village elders and warriors. [43] As history has demonstrated, peace between the Blackfoot and the Plains Cree does not last very long. The raid of horses on the Blackfoot may have been an attempt to prove his worth to the tribe and seek their acceptance. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. A representative from Chief Beardys group suggested they rent the land while others suggested they refuse the Treaty altogether. Signing up enhances your TCE experience with the ability to save items to your personal reading list, and access the interactive map. He was unable to hold the band together, which began to splinter. Erasmus and the other two translators translated to the people the terms of the treaty one more time. To the Canadian delegation, the only legally binding contracts were what was written into the treaty. Chief Beardy, a spiritual leader known to possess powers, met the treaty party on the journey to the Fort and invited them to meet on a local hill - this was based on a vision he had. [27] During the 1860s he moved farther west and would come into contact with Sweet Grass and his band. He also agreed to give agricultural implements. Interpreter, Peter Erasmus, now employed with the government and travelling with the Treaty party translated the terms of the Treaty signed. [24] However, as European settlers came to the plains, that number dwindled significantly. Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Mtis. There were many subsequent adhesions to the treaty by . On 19 August, Morris was presented with chiefs, but he noticed the absence of the Duck Lake band leaders. Welcome to Archive of European Integration - Archive of European . Treaty No. In another significant difference from Treaty 6, Treaty 7 states that the Crown would pay for teachers salaries instead of the maintenance of school buildings. [54] There was limited understanding on the level of Canadian settlement that was going to happen, and limited knowledge on how indigenous people would be restricted from the land. Charter prohibiting the use of force except in self defense. When the Metis under Louis Riel started the Northwest-Rebellion in 1885, Wandering Spirit would lead a group of Cree to raid the Frog Lake Settlement. Families had the ability to break away from their current band and join another elsewhere. That afternoon, Treaty Six was signed by the Treaty Commissioners, the Lieutenant Governor, followed by Chiefs Mistawasis, Ahtahkakoop, and 11 other Chiefs, and 44 Headmen. They felt the treaty did not do enough to protect the Cree 'way of life' and forced assimilation into European culture and 'way of life'. The iconography on the commemorative medals for Treaty 6 symbolizes: A.Two sovereign nations making peace and sharing the land forever B.The equality of all peoples under God C.The transfer of land and resources for material goods D.The dominance of the British Crown in negotiations and afterward A The band had instead sent a messenger to attend the negotiations. Gov. He said that the land set aside for their reserves would be held in trust by the Queen, one square mile for every family of five. Poundmaker, a Councilor from Red Pheasants band, stood up and protested, This is our land, not a piece of pemmican to be cut off and given in little pieces. In achieving this, the government had to get permission from the First Nations in the area to surrender their lands and in doing so had to negotiate a Treaty with them. what I will promise, and what I believe and hope you will take, is to last as long as the sun shines and yonder rivers flow., Negotiating the Terms: Friday August 18, 1876, For several days the Chiefs met and waited for others to arrive. While the signing of the treaty can be seen as selling away indigenous rights, it did bring much-needed medication and food to the Cree who had insufficient options. Schools were to be established on reserves. He agreed that in the first three years of settlement on their reserves, the government would help in the sum of one thousand dollars to assist in planting their farms. The Cree made it clear that they would not tolerate any trespassers on their lands. [17] The soul was able to leave the body during visions where it would accompany their spiritual helper. Indigenous peoples are subject to the same tax rules as any other resident in Canada unless their income is eligible for the tax exemption under section 87 of the Indian Act. Website Development Studio, Web Design by M.R. Treaty 6, between the Queen and bands of Cree and Stoney First Nations, was negotiated and signed at Fort Carlton and Duck Lake in August, and at Fort Pitt in September, 1876. The treaty outlined specifics as to rights of indigenous people and support and protection of the Queen. It is ours and we will take what we want. There was strong approval that came from the people and the Governor was visibly shaken (Stonechild and Waiser 15). After the raid, they moved back to the reserve with the captured supplies without another incident. Christie, the officer in charge of the Hudsons Bay Company for the Saskatchewan District. He was succeeded by his son, Apseenes (Young Sweet Grass); he was unable to hold the band together, which began to splinter. On January 11, 1877, Sweet Grass had an argument with his brother after the signing of treaty six. Sweet Grass converted to Christianity in 1870, [25] being baptized into Catholicism with the name Abraham. The treaty boundaries extend across central portions of present-day, On 27 July 1876, Morris left for Fort Carlton to negotiate a treaty with the Plains Indigenous peoples of Saskatchewan. While there was a Cree verbal translation, the Treaty was made in English. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. "The Blackfoot and the Cree were fighting to gain control of the Cypress Hills boundaries and in the fall of 1870 there was a battle between them called the Battle of Belly River. Big Bear and Little Pine led the Crees and attacked a Blood First Nations camp. [25] The lack of trapping territory, along with the decline of the buffalo left the Cree helpless. Website Development Studio. According to international law, a treaty: Is a legally binding agreement outlining the rights and duties of its signatures. A force of North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) was sent to the area to maintain order. In 1871, a delegation of Chiefs went to Fort Edmonton to meet with Chief Factor W.J. He suggested to Morris that the government needed to preserve what buffalo herds were left, so that they could all share equally. Not all Plains Cree would sign the treaty at first, and many would become disillusioned after signing. This has led to conflict over the clauses of the agreement. From here the group made income from farming and lumber sale, supplemented with traditional methods as much as possible. Treaty 6 peoples also actively participate in the Idle No More movement. Sweet Grass (also Sweetgrass or Wikaskokiseyin or Wihaskokiseyin) (c.1815 on or shortly before January 11, 1877) was a chief of the Cree in the 1860s and 1870s in western Canada. The legacy of Treaty 6 continues to affect the Cree till the modern day. This made the Plains Cree very nervous and they confronted the surveyors and warned them to stop what they were doing because the government had not met with them to discuss their concerns. Adhesions continued into the 20th century, with the bands of Rocky Mountain House (May 1944 and 1950), Witchekan Lake (November 1950) and Cochin (August 1954 and May 1956). Schools were to be established on reserves. He was succeeded by his son, Apseenes (Young Sweet Grass). The government wanted tribes to become more democratic in its governing of the reserves and rely less on the chiefs who traditionally were the leaders of the community. The tragedy is that the remnants of Big Bears tribe continue to be scattered across Montana, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Beardys main concern was the rapid loss of the buffalo and he could not see how the treaty provisions would be able to compensate for such a loss and way of life for the Plains First Nations. The treaty boundaries extend across central portions of present-day Alberta and Saskatchewan. [15] This figure held no real identity and did not appear to anyone in visions or contact. Chief Sweetgrass, a well respected leader was chosen to be the spokesman for the meeting with Christie (Christensen 148). Other Nations held them in fear(Stonechild and Waiser 5). Chief Mistawasis and Chief Ahtahkakoop represented the Carlton Cree. The treaty contained, with some variations, the standard written clauses of the earlier numbered treaties signed with First Nations: surrender of Indian land rights; provision of assistance in the transition to an agricultural economy; provision of reserves (in Treaty 6 the equivalent of one square mile per family of . What was the outcome of Chief Sweetgrass signing Treaty 6? We heard our lands were sold and we did not like it; we dont want to sell our lands; it is our property, and no one has the right to sell them. Mistahimaskwa was not the only chief who initially refused to sign the treaty. You comment will be forwarded to the editor of this page. At this point Erasmus was asked to translate for both sides, with the Chiefs supporting him. By 1870 Canada was made up of four provinces: Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. Buffalo hunting and fur trading were a vital part of Cree survival. Arthur J. Ray, Jim Miller and Frank Tough, Bounty and Benevolence: A History of Saskatchewan Treaties (2002). The days of bison hunting were coming to an end, and the Cree needed help adjusting to new modes of life; the treaty provided them with that opportunity. However, over-trapping forced tribes to move west to find suitable forest areas. The Crees were advised by members of Yellowquills band to prevent the treaty party from crossing the river as they were unhappy about the terms of Treaty 4. The Queens representative, Alexander Morris, dressed in a cocked hat, blue uniform with gold braid and lace, was accompanied by the North West Mounted Police and treaty commissioners William J. Christie and James McKay. Chief Sweet Grass (Weekaskookwasayin) signed. Chief Sweetgrass, a well respected leader was chosen to be the spokesman for the meeting with Christie (, In the years of 1872 to 1875 there was pressure on the Canadian government from the First Nations in the prairies to address treaties. Morris did not understand that Chief Beardy and the Willow Cree declined to negotiate Treaty because it did not follow Beardy's vision, not because of the treaty itself. It is ours and we will take what we want.. In Canada, Aboriginal title describes the rights of Indigenous peoples to land based on long-standing land use and occupancy. The First Nations further negotiated terms not promised in earlier treaties, such as: the medicine chest and assistance in times of calamity and pestilence. Indigenous people were forced to choose between living on reserves, receiving a fixed amount of money every year for the rest of their lives and trying to assimilate and lose their status. 6 Recognition Day in 2013. However, Big Bear was forced by starvation to adhere to Treaty 6 in 1882 and settled into the Frog Lake area. [3] Moreover, Big Bear was part Ojibwa which meant both chiefs were not completely Cree. Treaty 6 Today It aims to protect treaty rights, support Indigenous self-government and assist in the socio-cultural, political, economic and spiritual advancement of their people. Once the amendments were made to the treaty text, negotiations came to a close. Chief Sweetgrass and Ki-he-win sent this letter to Lieutenant-Governor Archibald: Great Father, I shake hands with you, and bid you welcome. The Treaty promised to give the Tlicho annual payments and services, like medical care, education and old age care. In 1882, Young Sweet Grass & seventeen followers joined Wah-wee-kah-oo-tah-mah-hote (Strikes him on the back), who had signed Treaty 6 at Fort Carlton on August 28, 1876. The Plains Cree were not always the victims of this conflict. Treaty 6 was signed in 1876. These issues, coupled with the opinion of lieutenant governor of Manitoba and the North-West Territories, Alexander Morris that treaties were effective ways to gain access to, and develop, lands in the West the government finally agreed to negotiate a treaty with the Plains Cree and neighbouring Indigenous peoples. Situated near the North Saskatchewan River, Fort Carleton was a trading post between 1810 and 1885, and the first site for Treaty 6 negotiations. The treaty also provided twine and ammunition at a value of $1,500 per year, and agricultural implements, such as gardening tools, livestock, horses and wagons. (Stonechild and Waiser 26), Mista Muskwa (Big Bear) monument on the Poundmaker Cree NationPhoto Credit: Deanne Kasokeo. What was the European perspective of treaty 6. [30] Another was that the government should stop supplying weapons to the Blackfeet who were his tribe's enemy. [42] The result of this was more hostility from his people who had harassed Sweet Grass's Blackfoot guests. Gov. He recounted the important points the Chiefs expressed regarding their physical and cultural survival, recounted the moving speeches of Ahtahkakoop and Mistawasis, and the special provisions that they negotiated to be included. They believed that the land was sacred. Chief Weekaskookwasayin (Sweet Grass) permitted Morris to explain those terms to the congregation. The treaty boundaries extend across central portions of present-day Alberta and Saskatchewan. + - This map is a work in progress. While traditions within tribes remained significant, the Cree became more receptive to different denominations of Christianity. The treaty annuities are annual cash payments distributed by the Government of Canada to the descendants of the Indigenous peoples who signed the RobinsonSuperior and RobinsonHuron treaties and the Numbered Treaties. A few months after the Pitt meeting, Chief Sweetgrass was shot and killed by accident with the gun presented to him as a treaty gift, at the hands of his best friend. The bearer of the sacred stem Wah-wee-kah-nich-ka-oh-tah-mah-hote (the man you strike on the back) carried the decorated pipe stem, and walked slowly along the semi circle of people to the front. The peak of the conflict came in 1861 when the Blackfoot had threatened to kill any Cree, Metis, or white man whom they stumbled upon. [3] Both Chiefs would work together in multiple raids on the Blackfoot. Since the signing of Treaty 6 in 1876, there have been disagreements between Indigenous signatories and the federal government, stemming from misunderstandings about the true meaning and intention of the treaty terms. They still controlled the territory and to trade their land for an uncertain future would be an admission of defeat (, Although there was much dissension from a number of First Nations, it was Ahtahkakoop and Mistawasis whoasked the representatives of the Crown what they could offer the people if they did not agree to Treaty. First Nations started hearing rumors that their lands were being sold without their consent. Recognize Edmonton sits within Treaty No. It was due to both Lacombe's understanding of Cree culture and the growing desperation of the Cree, he would be able to convert many of the Cree to the Roman Catholic faith. He was succeeded by his son, Apseenes (Young Sweet Grass). After explaining the treaty terms, the Duck Lake chiefs and headmen also signed the treaty. Created in 1993, the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations represents the various band governments of Treaty 6. [3] After being forced to set up camp along a river due to a snow storm, a member of their war party left to collect food and spotted a lone member of the Blackfoot on foot rounding up horses. Like the earlier agreements this treaty called on the natives to surrender their aboriginal title to the lands they inhabited In return they were promised reserves education and farming supplies and the right to hunt trap and fish as well as annual cash payments. Some, but not all, locals met them. By signing an adhesion to a treaty, Indigenous peoples who could not attend or were not initially included in treaty negotiations were able to enter into the terms of that treaty. To address the concern over loss of traditional food sources, a promise of rations during times of pestilence and famine was added. This propelled him to work with the Canadian and eventually sign Treaty Six. Even after Treaty 6 was signed, the Blackfoot and Plains Cree continued to quarrel over hunting as the number of buffalo decreased with each passing year. Treaties are the law of the land in the relationship between First Nations and the rest of Canada. At that time, they as well were facing low fur prices, and poor hunting and fishing. The Sweetgrass First Nation is a Cree First Nation in Cut Knife, Saskatchewan, Canada. Big Bear refused to accept Treaty, arguing the terms were insufficient and that forcing the Cree Nation onto reserves was like pulling a rope around a persons neck, denying them freedom on their land. They hunted in the same territory and would often hunt and camp together. [55] Young Sweet Grass would eventually become chief and would name the new group the Sweetgrass First Nation in honour of his father. Many Chiefs anticipated the arrival of the Queens treaty commissioners. Just before the Treaty party left Fort Pitt, Big Bear arrived and asked to speak with Morris. [29] Sweet Grass hope to work with the federal government was challenged by other prominent Cree leaders. Under the leadership of Young Sweet Grass, the band began to fall apart due to internal conflict. They agreed with much of what was being said, however, they wanted to ensure their survival, and that the Great Queen Mother would look after them. Aboriginal is an oversimplification that hides more meaning than it conveys. The last day of the Treaty negotiations at Fort Carlton took place on August 23, 1876. We never shed any white mans blood, and we have always been friendly with the whites, and want workmen, carpenters and farmers to assist us when we settle. Some of the Chiefs and their people were hunting on the prairies and the ones that were present wanted to wait for the others while a message was sent for them to attend the meeting. [47] This would be Sweetgrass's last significant influence on his people, as he would die shortly after signing the Treaty. Issues arise from the mixed interpretations of the Treaty by both the Indigenous groups and the Government. What was the outcome of Chief Sweetgrass signing Treaty 6? [8] Children did not wear much clothing and boys wore nothing until the age of five. Mtis observer and translator, Peter Erasmus noted that Morris was shaken by the incident. What Treaty 6 peoples are close to Edmonton? Treaty 45 and Treaty 72 The SON are signatories to various. While it sometimes would go to the eldest son of the previous chief, an incompetent man would not be given the position. While the convention was initially held to modify the existing Articles of Confederation, the eventual consensus was the drafting of a new constitution. Fearing starvation and unrest, many of the initially hesitant chiefs signed adhesions to the treaty in the years to come, including Minahikosis (who signed in July 1879) and Mistahimaskwa (who signed on 8 December 1882 at Fort Walsh). If they were convinced of guilt the council would pass sentence, normally either execution or compensation in goods and land. In August 1876, among the first to arrive at Fort Carlton were Chiefs Ahatahkakoop, Mistawasis and their followers (, Gov. [21], Sweet Grass often worked closely with the fellow Cree chief Big Bear. In Morris address he described the governments genuine concern for the welfare of their Indian brothers and sisters and asked them to take his words with much thought and to look to the future, what I will promise, and what I believe and hope you will take, is to last as long as the sun shines and yonder rivers flow. (Stonechild and Waiser 15). Born about 1825 to the Cree/Ojibwa Chief Black Powder, Big Bear assumed power while still a young man after demonstrating his spiritual power and leadership qualities. Chief Sweet Grass (Weekaskookwasayin) signed Treaty 6 on September 9, 1876, with the Fort Pitt Indians, but was killed about six months later. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. However, he was too late; the treaty had already been signed. By 1870 chief Sweet Grass would begin to become more integrated into Canadian society. John A. Macdonald did not want to go to war with the First Nations as the Americans were in the south to attain lands. On September 9, the Chiefs and Headmen signed their approval to accept Treaty 6. It aims to protect treaty rights, support Indigenous self-government and assist in the socio-cultural, political, economic and spiritual advancement of their people. Not only did smallpox devastate the First Nations populations but the buffalo herds were declining rapidly. The father of the child would ask Cree Shamans with spiritual powers to help with the naming process. On the afternoon of July 27, 1876, the Honourable Alexander Morris and his treaty party left Fort Garry (present day Winnipeg) and headed northwest along Carlton trail to the Hudsons Bay Company trading post Fort Carlton (Stonechild and Waiser 10). Let us not think of ourselves but our childrens children, let us show our wisdom by choosing the right path while we yet have a choice. He died January 17, 1888 and is buried in the Poundmaker cemetery. Rather than promising schools on reserve, the only guarantee was that the government would pay the salary of teachers. I for one will take the hand that is offered. Ahtahkakoop supporting his fellow Chief and said, Let us not think of ourselves but our childrens children, let us show our wisdom by choosing the right path while we yet have a choice (Stonechild and Waiser 17). The reserve was established as part of Treaty 6 when Chief Sweetgrass (Weekaskookwasayin) signed Treaty 6 on September 9, 1876. They still controlled the territory and to trade their land for an uncertain future would be an admission of defeat (Stonechild and Waiser 16). During discussions, Gov. Historians Arthur J. Ray, Jim Miller and Frank Tough have argued that this ceremony was significant to the Cree because it invited the Creator to provide guidance to the negotiators and to witness the treaty discussions. 11 Where was the Treaty 6 of 1876 signed? [8] Sweet Grass most likely did not partake in this tradition or many other childhood ones. We want cattle, tools, agricultural implements, and assistance in everything when we come to settle- our country is no longer able to support us. As a well respected Cree leader during a time of strife, Sweet Grass attempted to lead his people as best as he could. [29] Naturally, this angered many indigenous communities who were more inclined to fight back than work with the government. [2] Due to this, Sweet Grass was not Cree and was Crow. Alexander Morris spoke to those present, promising to offer the same terms as at Fort Carlton. Currently the band controls 20,354.6 ha of land, the largest block of which is located 26 km west ofNORTH BATTLEFORD. It belonged to no one man and could not be sold (Christensen 146). He attempted to take Sweet Grass's pistol and it accidentally discharged, resulting in his death.[5]. 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