Dummer's War was a significant conflict that characterizes the struggle between European settlers and Native American tribes in New England during the early 18th century. The war began in 1722, fueled by the escalating tensions over land as settlers expanded into Wabanaki territory along the eastern frontier. Governor William Dummer of Massachusetts was instrumental in the conflict, which was named after him, as he led efforts to defend colonial interests in the region. The conflict primarily involved the Wabanaki Confederacy, which consisted of several tribes, including the Penobscot and the Kennebec, who banded together to defend their lands from what they perceived as colonial encroachment.

The hostilities began with a Wabanaki raid on the Massachusetts frontier, which prompted Dummer to respond militarily. This set off a series of violent exchanges between the settlers and Indigenous forces, with both sides engaging in ambushes and retaliatory strikes. The Wabanaki utilized their knowledge of the land to conduct guerilla-style warfare against colonial troops. Notably, the conflict was marked by significant instances of destruction as raids led to loss of life and property on both sides. The war continued intermittently until 1727 and concluded with negotiations that recognized some limits on colonial expansion.

Dummer's War is often seen as part of a larger context of colonial expansion and Indigenous resistance in North America. Although it may not have had the same level of recognition as later conflicts, it laid the groundwork for future relations between Native Americans and European settlers, ultimately shaping the social and political landscape of New England.