Pontiac (Ottawa leader) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Pontiac
No authentic images of Pontiac are known to exist. This interpretation was painted by John Mix Stanley.
Born	c. 1714/20 Great Lakes region, New France
Died	April 20, 1769 (aged 48–55) near Cahokia, Illinois Country
Cause of death	Assassination
Nationality	Ottawa
Occupation	War leader
Known for	Pontiac's War

Pontiac (c. 1720 – April 20, 1769) was a war chief who became known for his role in Pontiac's War (1763–1766), an American Indian war against British military near the Great Lakes region and named for him.  Historians today generally view him as an important local leader who influenced a wider movement that he did not command.

The war began in May 1763 when Pontiac and 300 followers attempted to take Fort Detroit by surprise but their plan was foiled.

He gained confidence as he continued to go against the British. British officials made Pontiac the focus of their diplomatic efforts seeking to end the war.

Images for kids

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  Pontiac's council

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  Pontiac Memorial at Livingston County Courthouse in Pontiac, Illinois

See also

In Spanish: Jefe Pontiac para niños