Primary sourceDocument31 May 1779
Instructions to Major General John Sullivan, 31 May 1779
George Washington · 31 May 1779
Written orders from George Washington directing the destruction of Haudenosaunee (Six Nations) settlements and the capture of prisoners during the Revolutionary War.
As commander-in-chief, Washington personally ordered this campaign, revealing his direct role in wartime policy toward Native nations.
About this source
What it is
This document, dated 31 May 1779, was written by George Washington at his headquarters in Middle Brook and sent to Major General John Sullivan. It instructs Sullivan on a military campaign against the Six Nations of the Haudenosaunee and their allies.
Why it matters
As commander of the Continental Army, Washington here orders the total destruction of Indigenous settlements and the capture of prisoners of any age or sex. The document reveals the human cost of the Revolutionary War for Native nations and shows Washington directing a campaign with devastating consequences for civilians, not just soldiers. It is a stark record of how the war for American independence also involved the displacement and destruction of Indigenous communities.
Look closer
- What does the language of
This document is part of the curated material that grounds the AI version of George Washington on Humy.ai — when students ask about related events, the AI can quote it and cite it.
More George Washington sources
Meet the AI George Washington →Primary source
To John Augustine Washington, 18 July 1755
George Washington · 18 July 1755
Primary source
General Orders, 9 July 1776
George Washington · 9 July 1776
Primary source
Circular to the States
George Washington · 8 June 1783
PaintingPrimary source
Portrait of George Washington by Wertmüller
Adolf Ulrik Wertmüller · 1795
SpeechPrimary source
George Washington's Farewell Address
George Washington · 19 September 1796
Ready when you are
Start chatting with George Washington now.
20 messages free · No credit card · Available in 50+ languages.