In an “Address To General William Henry Harrison”, Tecumseh demands the return to Native Americans of the land that the United States Government bought. Chief Tecumseh feels that Natives who sold land had no right to sell it and therefore the land should be returned in accordance with General Harrison’s promise. Chief Tecumseh establishes an emotional connection with General William Henry Harrison by using literary techniques. He wants to convince Harrison to return Native American land.
This letter uses repetition as the most obvious form of literary technique. Every paragraph begins with Chief Tecumseh addressing General Harrison by calling him “[b]rother.” This literary method allows General Harrison to feel like a brother. They are not different in appearance but the same inside. Since they both are humans, it is absurd that they would fight over a trivial issue like land. Using a literary technique, Tecumseh suggests that family members do not steal each other’s land. So, if the family is real, they will get their land back.
Chief Tecumseh also appeals to General Harrison’s spirituality, in addition to creating a connection. Chief Tecumseh evokes the Crucifixion tale, wondering why anyone would trust white people after what they had done to Jesus. Chief Tecumseh, using this allusion, expresses his mistrust in whites. The allusion is also a challenge to General Harrison, who must prove that Native Americans trust whites by returning their land. Because he is Christian, he will be able to recognize General Harrison’s gesture. Chief Tecumseh adds, “[t]he Spirit of God has inspired my words, and they are the only ones I can speak to you.” This statement shows a common value for religion. General Harrison may have different religions but he is spiritual and can understand Chief Tecumseh. The statement is also a testament to the authority of Chief Tecumseh.
Chief Tecumseh, too, appeals to General Harrison’s values. He does this by referring back to the speech of General Harrison, commenting: “[b]rother… I enjoyed hearing your speech.” Chief Tecumseh points out that Native Americans selling the land had no rights to it. General Harrison stated that the land will be returned if these facts can be proven. Chief Tecumseh attempts to bring about a mutual understanding by using the words of General Harrison. Chief Tecumseh challenges Harrison by referring back to his speech. He warns him that if he does not keep his promise, he will lose his credibility.
Chief Tecumseh cites General Harrison as an example of his work in order to gain credibility. Chief Tecumseh acknowledges that war will break out between the tribes, and that General Harrison would have “had a hand” in their deaths because he didn’t help. This is a threat that appeals General Harrison’s sense of responsibility, as he does not want to die at the hands of another. Chief Tecumseh makes this statement in order to encourage General Harrison into action. Chief Tecumseh ends his speech by praising General Harrison’s work. Chief Tecumseh uses a metaphor, stating, “If you offer us tomahawks and powder, we won’t take either.” ” Chief Tecumseh was saying the Native Americans would accept a peace offer if one were made, but they wouldn’t hesitate to go to war in case it became necessary. General Harrison would not fight against Native Americans as lives could be lost. Returning land to Native Americans will be the only solution to avoid a war.