Ourehouare facts for kids

Ourehouare (died 1698) was an important Native American leader of the Cayuga people. He played a key role in protecting his people and bringing peace during a difficult time in North American history.

Who Was Ourehouare?

Ourehouare was a respected leader of the Cayuga people, one of the nations that belonged to the powerful Iroquois Confederacy. The Cayuga people originally lived in what is now the Finger Lakes region of New York State. Before 1673, many Cayugas moved to the area that is now Prince Edward County in Ontario, Canada.

Standing Up for His People

Ourehouare was known for protecting his people's land and rights. For example, he helped stop William Penn from buying lands that belonged to the Susquehanna people. This shows his dedication to preventing unfair land deals and standing up for Native American communities.

A Time of Conflict

In the late 1600s, there was a lot of tension and fighting in North America. France controlled much of the western fur trade, which was a very important business. However, the Iroquois Confederacy, including the Cayugas, wanted to be part of this trade too. They often worked with the English to challenge French control.

Captured and Sent Away

In 1687, de Denonville was the French Governor. During this time of conflict, French forces captured a group of Cayugas. They also tricked another group into entering a fort, where they were all taken prisoner. Ourehouare and several others were also captured and added to the group. A total of 51 Cayuga people were taken. They were treated very badly and then sent across the ocean to France. This harsh act led to more than ten years of warfare in the area known as New France.

A Powerful Friendship

Because of the ongoing war, King Louis XIV decided to send the captives back in 1689. He also replaced Governor de Denonville with Louis de Buade de Frontenac. Frontenac returned to New France with Ourehouare and 13 other Cayuga men. These men had survived two years of being held captive on the king's warships.

Frontenac and Ourehouare quickly became close and powerful friends. Ourehouare became like an ambassador for the governor. He helped in many attempts to make peace with the Iroquois. He also joined in some attacks against their enemies. Having a Cayuga ally like Ourehouare greatly changed the war, helping to bring about peace.

Ourehouare's Legacy

Ourehouare passed away in 1698. He was buried with full military honors, showing how much he was respected. His efforts to bring peace were very important. If the war had continued, it might have caused New France to run out of money or even be abandoned. Ourehouare's actions helped shape the future of North America, preventing even more conflict and helping to establish peace.