In March 1760, during the French and Indian War, Cherokees laid siege to Fort Loudoun, a British outpost in what is now Monroe County, Tennessee. The British eventually surrendered, and in August the soldiers and their families left the fort and headed for British settlements to the east. On the way, they were attacked by the Cherokee. More than two dozen British were killed, and many others were captured and either killed or held for ransom in what later became known as the Fort Loudoun Massacre.

Question

Before the war, the Cherokee and British had been on good terms. Which of the following most likely explains why the Cherokee turned against the British?
A.
The French offered them land in Quebec.
B.
The French converted them to Catholicism.
C.
They believed the British supported their enemies.
D.
They believed the British wanted to take their land.

Answer 1

The most likely explanation for why the Cherokee turned against the British is:

D. They believed the British wanted to take their land.

This sentiment was common among Indigenous peoples during this period, as European settlers frequently encroached on their territories. The Cherokee's shift in relations with the British can be attributed to their concerns over land loss and changing dynamics in the region, particularly as the British expanded their influence.