Meskwaki
Meskwaki was a Native American nation.
The nation is also sometimes referred to as Fox.
Contents
History
The Meskwaki nation has Algonquin origins. They were a dominant force in the Fox River system in Wisconsin, competing with the Chippewa. Until the creation of alternative canals, the Fox-Wisconsin Riverway was the primary method for traversing the Great Lakes system and the Mississippi River system. The portage was about 2 miles long and had minimal grade change. During high water events, the Wisconsin could even overflow across the portage.
In addition, the Meshkwaki nation had a tradition of ore mining and smelting.
The First (1712-1714) and Second Fox Wars (1728) were part of a larger, decades long period of violence. The French sought to dominate the riverway. Ultimately, the Meskwaki were decimated and forged a military alliance with the Sauk nation. They both migrated south into the lands between the Illinois and Mississippi.
Meskwaki tribes participated in the conquest of Illinois territories.
In 1804, on behalf of both the Sauk and Meskwaki nations, Quashquame (Jumping Fish) signed the Treaty of St. Louis. This ceded all land between the Illinois and Mississippi, as well as a portion of the Missouri River basin. Makataimeshekiakiak (Black Sparrow Hawk, or simply Black Hawk) organized a militia to contest the cession of land. In 1832, the Black Hawk War erupted and ended with his defeat. He was imprisoned but eventually released.