The Conflict Between the Natchez Tribe and the French by Kharlee St Ann
Professor Mark Carson, University of Holy Cross, April 12, 2024.
The Battle of Massacre Island, better known as the Natchez Revolt of 1729, was a significant battle fought in Louisiana. This battle occurred as the result of conflict between the French population and the Natchez tribe citizens. Previously, this attack has been remembered as a revolt, massacre, war, and an uprising. Regardless of what the event is called, it has been considered the darkest time in the French colonization of Louisiana. Patricia Woods gives us further insight stating, “Yet, the massacre of 1729 was the third in a series of conflicts between the Louisianians and the Natchez.” It ultimately…show more content… It was demanded that the Natchez move from their Great Village site on short notice so the plantation could be established. Le Page Du Pratz, who lived in Louisiana from 1718 until 1734, annotated, “He therefore made an answer, that his ancestors had lived in that village for as many years as there were hairs in his double cue; and therefore it was good they should continue there still.” The Natchez started this battle as they planned a surprise attack after feeling increasingly pressured and threatened. November 29, 1729, was the day that the Natchez attacked French colonists at Fort Rosalie along with surrounding settlements. To obtain arms and ammunition, the Natchez traded with the French. Offering to pay the French more than the usual price, they received guns, ball, and powder in exchange of poultry and corn. To the Natchez’s advantage, they could use these weapons against the French. The Natchez tribe primarily targeted men, with some enslaved Africans and women spared. French colonists were caught off guard by the Natchez attack and suffered heavy casualties, with an estimated 230 colonists killed in less than two hours. It was reported that 56 children, 35 women, and 144 men were killed. It is possible that the name “The Battle of Massacre Island” given to this war was
