The Delaware Nation, also widely recognized as the Lenape or Lenni Lenape, holds a significant place in the history of the United States and its interactions with Indigenous peoples. This venerable nation, considered among the oldest in the eastern United States, is notable for signing the first formal treaty between an Indigenous nation and the newly formed United States of America in 1778. This article delves into the history, culture, and contemporary status of the Delaware Nation, offering a comprehensive overview of their enduring legacy.
Official Identity and Contact Information
Formally known as the Delaware Nation, the tribal headquarters is located at 31064 State Highway #281, Building 100, P.O. Box 825, Anadarko, OK 73005. They can be reached by phone at 405-247-2448 and by fax at 405-247-9393. Their official website, www.delawarenation.com, provides further information about the nation’s activities and governance. The Delaware Nation is a federally recognized tribe, acknowledging its sovereign status and the government-to-government relationship with the United States.
The Name and Its Meanings
The Delaware Nation is primarily known by two names: Delaware and Lenape. The name "Lenape" translates to "The People" (pronounced len-ah’-pay) in their native language, reflecting their self-identification and cultural understanding. The origin of the name "Delaware" is a topic of historical debate.
The commonly accepted explanation attributes the name to an Englishman, Lord de la Warr, whose formal title was Sir Thomas West. He was appointed governor of the English colony at Jamestown, Virginia, in 1610. One of his followers, Captain Samuel Argall, sailed into a prominent bay, naming it "de la Warr Bay" in honor of the governor. The river flowing into the bay subsequently received the same designation, which was eventually shortened to Delaware. Thus, the people living along the Delaware River became known as the Delaware.
However, the Lenape have their own narrative regarding the name’s origin, a story that highlights the misunderstandings and miscommunications that often occurred during early interactions with European colonizers. According to their oral tradition, when Europeans first encountered a Lenape individual and inquired about his tribal affiliation, he responded with "Lenape." The European, struggling with the pronunciation, repeatedly mispronounced the word as "Lenuhpee," "Renahpay," and other variations. Finally, upon correctly pronouncing "Lenape," the Lenape man exclaimed, "Nal nǫ ndǫluwǫn! Nal nǫ ndǫluwǫn!" which means "That’s what I said! That’s what I said!". The European, focusing on the "DULUWEN" sound, concluded, "Oh, you said Delaware! So you are a Delaware. Now I know what to call you," and the name stuck.
This alternative account underscores the cultural nuances and potential for misinterpretation that shaped the historical interactions between the Lenape and European settlers.
Alternate Names and Linguistic Variations
Historically, the Delaware have also been referred to as the Delaware Tribe of Western Oklahoma (though this is a former name), and Lenni-Lenape. Variations in spelling and pronunciation have resulted in alternate spellings such as Deleware, Linape, and Lenapee. Early Swedish sources recorded the Lenape as the Renappi.
Geographic Distribution and Traditional Territory
The Delaware Nation’s historical presence spans a significant portion of the northeastern United States. Traditionally, they inhabited the river valleys and woodland mountains of present-day Delaware, New York, New Jersey, and parts of Pennsylvania. Their strategic location allowed them to engage in trade and maintain complex relationships with neighboring tribes.
Over time, due to various pressures, including land sales to the Dutch in the early 17th century and subsequent displacement, the Delaware began moving westward. In 1682, they entered into a treaty of friendship with William Penn, which he largely honored. However, by 1720, they faced attacks from the Iroquois and were forced to relocate to what is now Ohio.
The 18th and 19th centuries were marked by further upheaval and displacement. In 1782, a peaceful settlement of Christian Delaware at Gnadenhutten was tragically massacred by white settlers. In 1794, Anthony Wayne defeated the Delaware, leading to the Treaty of Greenville in 1795, where they and their allies ceded lands in Pennsylvania and Ohio. This led to further migration across the Mississippi River to Kansas and then to Texas. Eventually, they were moved to the Indian Territory, now Oklahoma, and settled among the Cherokee.
Today, the Delaware Nation is primarily based in Oklahoma, with a significant presence in Canada as well. This dispersal reflects their long history of displacement and adaptation.
Confederacy and Tribal Divisions
The Delaware people evolved into a loose confederacy comprised of three major divisions: the Munsee (wolf), the Unalachtigo (turkey), and the Unami (turtle). Each division possessed its own distinct territory and cultural practices, contributing to the overall diversity of the Lenape people. The Delaware were often accorded the respectful title of "grandfather" by other Algonquian tribes, reflecting their perceived seniority and cultural influence.
Treaties and Agreements
The Delaware Nation’s history is intertwined with a series of treaties and agreements with both the United States and other entities. As previously mentioned, they signed the first-ever treaty between an Indigenous nation and the United States in 1778. Subsequent treaties included those of 1785 (Wyandotte Treaty), 1795 (Treaty of Greenville), 1803, 1804, 1809, 1818, 1829, 1854, and 1860. These treaties often involved land cessions, promises of protection, and other agreements that shaped the relationship between the Delaware and the U.S. government.
Population and Enrollment
In 1990, the Delaware population in the United States was approximately 10,000, with the majority residing in Oklahoma and Wisconsin. Around 600 Delaware live in Ontario, Canada. Specific tribal enrollment requirements vary, but generally involve demonstrating lineal descent from a documented Delaware ancestor.
Government and Governance
The Delaware Nation operates under its own governmental structure, exercising its sovereign rights as a federally recognized tribe. The specific details of their charter, governing body, council members, constitutional amendments, and executive officers would require consulting their official documents and website.
Language and Culture
The Lenape language, an Algonquian language, is a vital aspect of their cultural identity. While the number of fluent speakers has declined over time, revitalization efforts are underway to preserve and promote the language.
Related Tribes
Several related tribes share historical and cultural ties with the Delaware Nation. These include the Delaware Tribe of Indians (based in Bartlesville, Oklahoma), the Stockbridge Munsee Community (located in Shawano County, Wisconsin), and other Lenape communities in Canada. These groups maintain distinct identities while sharing a common heritage.
Historical Alliances and Conflicts
Throughout their history, the Delaware have navigated complex alliances and conflicts. Some sided with the French during the French and Indian Wars, participated in Pontiac’s Rebellion, and allied with the British during the American Revolution. Others, particularly those converted to Christianity by the Moravians, sought peaceful coexistence.
Contemporary Life
Today, the Delaware Nation continues to thrive as a sovereign nation, working to preserve its culture, language, and traditions. They are actively involved in economic development, education, healthcare, and other initiatives to improve the well-being of their citizens. Their story is a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the enduring spirit of the Lenape people.