The Correspondence of Thomas Jefferson
By Subject
INDIGENOUS AMERICAN TRIBES
I am to thank you for your attention to my queries on the subject of
the Indians. I have sent many copies to other correspondents, but as
yet have heard nothing from them. I shall proceed, however, in my
endeavors, particularly with respect to their language, and shall take
care so to dispose of what I collect thereon, as that it shall not be
lost. The attention which you pay to their rights, also, does you
great honor, as the want of that is a principal source of dishonor to
the American character. The two principles on which our conduct
towards the Indians should be founded, are justice and fear. After the
injuries we have done them, they cannot love us, which leaves us no
alternative but that of fear to keep them from attacking us. But
justice is what we should never lose sight of, and in time it may
recover their esteem.
to Benjamin Hawkins, 13 August 1786
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