The Life and Legacy of the Seneca Grand Chief Who Fought in the Civil War

Ely Samuel Parker: The Life and Legacy of the Seneca Grand Chief Who Fought in the Civil War and Became Commissioner of Indian Affairs

by Charles River Editors

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5622 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	71 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Ely S. Parker was a Seneca Grand Chief who fought in the Civil War. He was a gifted strategist and tactician, and he played a key role in the Union victory. After the war, he served as Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and he worked to improve the lives of Native Americans.

Early Life and Education

Ely S. Parker was born on September 18, 1828, on the Tonawanda Seneca Reservation in New York. His father was a Seneca chief, and his mother was a white woman. Parker was raised in both Seneca and white cultures, and he spoke both languages fluently. He attended school at the Buffalo Creek Reservation and later at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Pennsylvania.

Military Career

When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Parker joined the Union Army. He was commissioned as a captain in the 32nd New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment, which was composed of Iroquois Indians. Parker quickly rose through the ranks, and he was soon promoted to lieutenant colonel. He fought in several major battles, including the Battle of Antietam and the Battle of Gettysburg.

Parker was a gifted strategist and tactician, and he played a key role in the Union victory. He was particularly skilled at reconnaissance and intelligence gathering. He also developed a close relationship with General Ulysses S. Grant, who relied on Parker's advice and counsel.

Commissioner of Indian Affairs

After the war, Parker was appointed Commissioner of Indian Affairs by President Ulysses S. Grant. In this role, he worked to improve the lives of Native Americans. He established new reservations, negotiated treaties with Indian tribes, and provided them with food, clothing, and other supplies.

Parker also worked to promote education and economic development among Native Americans. He established schools on reservations and encouraged Indians to learn English and acquire new skills. He also helped to develop new industries on reservations, such as farming and logging.

Later Life and Legacy

Parker resigned as Commissioner of Indian Affairs in 1871. He then returned to the Tonawanda Seneca Reservation, where he lived until his death in 1895. He was buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.

Parker was a remarkable man who made significant contributions to both the United States and the Seneca Nation. He was a war hero, a diplomat, and a tireless advocate for the rights of Native Americans. His legacy continues to inspire people today.

Ely Samuel Parker: The Life and Legacy of the Seneca Grand Chief Who Fought in the Civil War and Became Commissioner of Indian Affairs

by Charles River Editors

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5622 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	71 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE