Oureouharé facts for kids

Oureouharé (died in Quebec, Canada, in 1697) was an important Cayuga chief. He played a key role in the history of New France and the Iroquois people during the late 1600s. Oureouharé was known for his bravery, leadership, and his efforts to bring peace between different groups.

Early Life and Capture

Oureouharé was a respected leader among the Cayuga, who are part of the larger Iroquois Confederacy. In 1687, a major event changed his life. The Canadian governor, Denonville, invited several Iroquois chiefs, including Oureouharé, to a meeting at Fort Frontenac. However, this meeting was a trick. The chiefs were captured and sent to France. There, they were forced to work as rowers on large ships called galleys. This was a very harsh punishment.

Return to Canada and Diplomacy

In 1689, Oureouharé was finally allowed to return to Canada. He came back with the new governor, Frontenac. Oureouharé quickly formed a strong bond with Frontenac. He advised the governor to release other Native American captives who were still in Canada. Frontenac listened to Oureouharé's advice. The captives were sent back to their homes. Oureouharé encouraged them to ask their tribes to send representatives to Montreal for peace talks.

On March 9, 1690, an important meeting took place in Montreal. An envoy, or messenger, from the Iroquois tribes arrived. He told Frontenac that all the French prisoners were now gathered at Onondaga. He also said that Oureouharé would decide what happened to them. Oureouharé worked hard to try and make peace between the Iroquois and the French. However, his efforts to fully reconcile the Iroquois with French rule were not completely successful at first.

Military Leadership and Loyalty

For a short time, Governor Frontenac wondered if Oureouharé was truly loyal. But in 1691, Oureouharé proved his loyalty during a difficult time. The Iroquois invaded the French colony. Oureouharé showed great courage in battle. His bravery at Repentigny helped the French win an important victory.

Later that same year, Oureouharé led a group of Christian Huron warriors. They fought in a battle at La Prairie. After this battle, he chased down a group of Iroquois. He successfully rescued several French prisoners.

Oureouharé then traveled to Quebec. Governor Frontenac thanked him for his brave actions. He also gave Oureouharé many valuable gifts. Several tribes offered to make Oureouharé their chief. But he refused, saying he would never leave "Ononthio," which was the name he used for Frontenac. He felt a deep respect and affection for the governor.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1692, Oureouharé moved to live among the Christian Iroquois in the mountains. However, he often visited the Cayugas and other tribes. He continued to work for the French, encouraging the Cayugas to release their French prisoners. He also helped keep these tribes loyal to the French.

Oureouharé visited Quebec again in 1697. Soon after arriving, he became very sick. He was a devoted Christian. It is said that when the missionary attending him spoke about the crucifixion of Jesus, Oureouharé cried out, "Why was I not there? I would have prevented them from so treating my God." He died in Quebec in 1697 and was buried with great ceremony. Frontenac deeply regretted his death. He had relied on Oureouharé to help achieve a lasting peace treaty with the Iroquois.