President George Washington

George Washington assumed the position as the first president of the United States in 1789. He believed that Indians should assimilate into American culture, and in Washington’s first term he declared that a just Indian policy was one of his top priorities.

"The Government of the United States are determined that their Administration of Indian Affairs shall be directed entirely by the great principles of Justice and humanity," Washington said.

The leader of the Chickasaws, Piominko, decided that demonstrating loyalty to the United States was the best way to receive the aid that the Chickasaws needed. Piominko and his warriors helped the United States invade other tribal lands. This loyalty from the Chickasaws made an impression on Washington. He showered Piominko and his warriors with gifts and provided the Chickasaw tribe with the necessary aid.

In July of 1794, Piominko arrived in Philadelphia to visit President Washington at his home in order to discuss a Spanish fort that was being built on the Mississippi River at Chickasaw Bluffs—an important military position for the Chickasaws. At the request of Piominko, Washington provided a written document that set forth the boundaries of the Chickasaw territory. The document stated that the Chickasaw territory was under the protection of the U.S. and included a warning to citizens.

Unfortunately, both Piominko and George Washington died within the next five years and those promises were not kept.