Leatherlips facts for kids
Leatherlips (1732–1810) was an important Wyandot Native American leader. He lived in the late 1700s and early 1800s. He was known by several Wyandot names, including SHA‑TE‑YAH‑RON‑YA. He belonged to the Porcupine Clan, just like his friend Chief Tarhe. Leatherlips was also related to other well-known Wyandot warriors like Roundhead.
The Wyandot people faced many challenges. Diseases and a difficult war with the Five Nations of the Iroquois greatly reduced their numbers. Because of this, they had to leave their original homeland near Georgian Bay. They moved to the area known as the Ohio country.
Working with Settlers
Leatherlips became a key leader among his people. He believed in working together with the white settlers. He even signed an important agreement called the Treaty of Greenville. This treaty was a peace agreement between Native American tribes and the United States. It set boundaries for Native American lands.
Leatherlips' choice to cooperate with settlers led to disagreements with other Native American leaders. Two Shawnee brothers, Tecumseh and Tenskwatawa (also known as The Prophet), led a movement against working with the settlers. They wanted Native American tribes to unite and resist the expansion of the United States.
A Difficult Decision
Tenskwatawa strongly disagreed with Leatherlips. He accused Leatherlips of giving away native lands. He also made serious accusations of witchcraft against him.
In 1810, Leatherlips' own brother, Roundhead, who was also a Wyandot chief, ordered his death. Leatherlips was condemned by other native leaders because he wanted to cooperate with white settlers. He was against Tecumseh's Confederacy, which aimed to fight against the United States. Leatherlips had also sold some native land to William Henry Harrison, who later became a U.S. president.
Many people believe that the accusations of witchcraft were made to hide the real reasons for his execution. These reasons were mostly political, focusing on his willingness to work with the settlers. While it's not clear if Roundhead directly took part in the execution, he did lead the council that decided Leatherlips should die.
His Final Moments
Six Wyandot warriors were sent by Roundhead to carry out the death sentence. They traveled to what is now Dublin, Ohio, which is just north of Columbus. White settlers in the area, led by John Sells, tried to save Leatherlips. They even tried to offer money to the warriors. However, the decision was final and quick.
Leatherlips dressed in his best clothes. He joined his executioners in singing a death chant and praying. After this, he was killed with a tomahawk.
Legacy and Memorials
Today, you can visit a monument and a special art sculpture in Dublin, Ohio. These memorials honor Leatherlips and tell his story. They serve as tourist attractions and remind people of his life and the difficult times he lived in.
See also
- List of people executed for witchcraft
