Why did the relationship between the Cherokee and the South Carolinians deteriorate after Governor William Lyttelton replaced Governor James Glen

Answer 1

The relationship between the Cherokee and the South Carolinians deteriorated after Governor William Lyttelton replaced Governor James Glen primarily due to a shift in British colonial policy toward the Native Americans.

Under Governor James Glen, the relationship between the Cherokee and South Carolinians had been relatively stable. Glen, who served as the governor of South Carolina from 1738 to 1756, had adopted a policy of coexistence and trade with the Cherokee nation. This policy was aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the region, as well as promoting economic development through the fur trade.

However, when Governor William Lyttelton assumed office in 1756, the British colonial policy toward the Native Americans began to change. Lyttelton, on the other hand, prioritized expanding British influence and control over the Native American tribes. He sought to assert British dominance and maximize British interests in the region, which led to increasing conflicts with the Cherokee.

Lyttelton's policies included aggressive land encroachment, attempts to impose British law and authority over the Cherokee, and undermining traditional tribal leadership. These actions directly contradicted the previous policy of cooperation and trade, causing concern and frustration among the Cherokee.

Additionally, Lyttelton's administration also pressured the Cherokee to provide military support during the French and Indian War, which further strained relations. The Cherokee were reluctant to engage in the conflict, as they saw it as a European war in which they had no stake. The British demand for military assistance was viewed as a betrayal and exploitation by the Cherokee.

As a result of these factors, the relationship between the Cherokee and the South Carolinians deteriorated significantly during Lyttelton's tenure. The once-friendly coexistence gave way to conflict, mistrust, and resentment, ultimately setting the stage for further hostilities and tensions between the two parties.