Walking Purchase Concludes in Pennsylvania

September 20th, 1737

September 20th, 1737

Walking Purchase Concludes in Pennsylvania
How Long Ago?

287 years, 5 months, 23 days ago

Location

Pennsylvania, USA

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • William Penn
  • Thomas Penn
Links & References
Tags

Walking Purchase Concludes in Pennsylvania

The Walking Purchase concluded in Pennsylvania, resulting in the cession of 1.2 million acres of Lenape-Delaware tribal land. The controversial land acquisition stemmed from an 1686 agreement that allowed the Pennsylvania government to claim land as far as a man could walk in a day and a half. After a distance of 70 miles was mapped out, tensions escalated as the Lenape perceived this maneuver as deceitful.

1.2 million acres ceded to Pennsylvania Colony.

Agreement involved deceptive walking distance tactics.

Colonial expansion at the expense of indigenous lands.

Event highlights indigenous land rights issues.

What Happened?

The Walking Purchase refers to a controversial land negotiation that significantly impacted the Lenape-Delaware tribes in Pennsylvania. The origins of the agreement date back to 1686 when the Delaware leaders agreed to a land transaction based on a 'walking' distance, specifying that the Pennsylvania government could take as much land as could be traversed in a day and a half. This understanding was based on trust and the belief that fair dealings would take place. However, when the time came to execute this agreement in 1737, a walking path was plotted that covered approximately 70 miles rather than the previously estimated figure, leading to the seizure of over 1.2 million acres. The colonial authorities employed a strategy of utilizing runners, advancing the distance claimed to foster colonial expansion at the expense of indigenous populations.

The Pennsylvania government justified its actions based on this interpretation of the original agreement, asserting that the distance walked was legally binding. The repercussions of this event reached far beyond the immediate loss of land; it marked a growing trend of colonial expansion and the erosion of native land rights. Resistance from the Lenape tribes was met with force, further solidifying the colony's dominance in the region. The eventual legality and ethical implications of such agreements prompted later debates surrounding land acquisition and Native American rights.

The Walking Purchase is emblematic of the complexities involved in colonial relations with Native Americans. It is an example of how colonial designs frequently disregarded indigenous sovereignty, framing land agreements as legal disputes rather than recognizing the cultural and communal significance of the land in question. The ensuing changes in land ownership reshaped tribal territories and contributed to the larger narrative of dispossession faced by Native Americans as European settlement expanded in North America.

Why Does it Matter?

The Walking Purchase is a pivotal example of the colonial land acquisition practices that disregarded Native American rights. It epitomizes how legal agreements were manipulated to displace indigenous peoples. The event underscores the tension between European settlers and Native communities, influencing future treaties and settler policies towards Native Americans in North America.

Discover More Historic Events from September 20th

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Global Climate Strikes Led by Greta Thunberg

September 20th, 2019 5 years ago

Roughly four million people participated in global climate strikes, predominantly consisting of students, to advocate for climate action. In New York City, sixteen-year-old Greta Thunberg emerged as a prominent leader of the demonstration, urging world leaders to take immediate measures against climate change. The movement highlighted the urgency of addressing environmental issues and called for governmental accountability and responsibility. Thunberg's presence and her impassioned speeches galvanized the youth and environmental activists worldwide, marking a significant moment in climate activism.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Ferry Capsizes Near Ukara Island, Lake Victoria

September 20th, 2018 6 years ago

A ferry capsized close to Ukara Island in Lake Victoria, Tanzania, leading to at least 161 confirmed fatalities. The vessel was reportedly overloaded with passengers returning from a local marketplace. Rescue operations faced challenges due to rough waters and the location of the incident. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as people struggled to escape the sinking ferry, highlighting the risks of negligence in ferry operations in the region.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Hurricane Maria Devastates Puerto Rico

September 20th, 2017 7 years ago

Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico as a powerful Category 4 storm. It brought devastating winds and rain that led to widespread destruction throughout the island. The storm caused severe damage to infrastructure, homes, and the electrical grid, resulting in a massive humanitarian crisis. The aftermath saw thousands of lives lost and a significant economic impact estimated at $90 billion, drawing national and international attention to Puerto Rico's needs for recovery and support.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

End of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Policy

September 20th, 2011 13 years ago

The 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy, enacted in 1993, prohibited openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual individuals from serving in the U.S. military. On this date, the repeal was implemented, allowing them to serve without fear of discharge due to their sexual orientation. This historic change was the result of years of advocacy by LGBTQ+ rights groups and influenced by changing societal attitudes towards homosexuality. With this repeal, the military began a new era of inclusivity and acceptance.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Explosives Detonate Near Islamabad Marriott

September 20th, 2008 16 years ago

A massive explosion ripped through a busy area in Islamabad when a dump truck filled with explosives detonated in front of the Marriott hotel. This tragic incident resulted in the loss of 54 lives and left 266 others injured. The attack targeted a prominent location frequented by both locals and foreigners, raising alarm about security in the capital. The motive behind the bombing appeared to be linked to ongoing conflicts involving militant groups in Pakistan at the time.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Large March Protests in Support of Convicted Youths

September 20th, 2007 17 years ago

Thousands marched in Jena, Louisiana, to express support for six black juveniles convicted of assaulting a white classmate. The protest highlighted racial tensions in the small Southern town, drawing national attention to the case and igniting conversations about racial justice and community response to perceived injustices. Protesters from various backgrounds gathered to advocate for what they saw as a disproportionate legal response to the altercation.

Continue Reading