George Washington’s instructions to Major General John Sullivan
May 31, 1779
Sir: The expedition you are appointed to command is to be directed against the hostile tribes of
the six nations of Indians, with their associates and adherents. The immediate objects are the
total destruction and devastation of their settlements and the capture of as many prisoners of
every age and sex as possible…I would recommd. That some post in the center of the Indian
Country should be occupied with all expedition, with a sufficient quantity of provision; whence
parties should be detached to lay waste all the settlements around, with instructions to do it in
the most effectual manner; that the country may not be merely overrun but destroyed …It
should be previously impressed upon the minds of the men when ever they have an opportunity,
to rush on with the warhoop and fixed bayonet. Nothing will disconcert and terrify the Indians
more than this… But you will not by any means, listen to any overture of peace before the total
ruin of their settlements is effected…Our future security will be in their inability to injure us; (the
distance to wch. They are driven) and in the terror with which the severity of the chastizement
they receive will inspire them… When we have effectually chastised them we may then listen to
peace and endeavour to draw further advantages from their fears.
May 31, 1779
Sir: The expedition you are appointed to command is to be directed against the hostile tribes of
the six nations of Indians, with their associates and adherents. The immediate objects are the
total destruction and devastation of their settlements and the capture of as many prisoners of
every age and sex as possible…I would recommd. That some post in the center of the Indian
Country should be occupied with all expedition, with a sufficient quantity of provision; whence
parties should be detached to lay waste all the settlements around, with instructions to do it in
the most effectual manner; that the country may not be merely overrun but destroyed …It
should be previously impressed upon the minds of the men when ever they have an opportunity,
to rush on with the warhoop and fixed bayonet. Nothing will disconcert and terrify the Indians
more than this… But you will not by any means, listen to any overture of peace before the total
ruin of their settlements is effected…Our future security will be in their inability to injure us; (the
distance to wch. They are driven) and in the terror with which the severity of the chastizement
they receive will inspire them… When we have effectually chastised them we may then listen to
peace and endeavour to draw further advantages from their fears.
Excerpts from George Washingtons' Instructions to John Sullivan.
Excerpts Courtesy of the Library of Congress
