Who was Zhaagobe, and what was his primary tribal affiliation and band?

Zhaagobe, also known by the names Jack-O-Pa or Shagobai, was a chief of the St. Croix Ojibwe people, specifically belonging to the Snake River band. He lived in the early 19th century, with his birth year estimated around 1794.

What significant role did Zhaagobe play in the relationship between the Ojibwe and the United States government?

Zhaagobe played a crucial role as a signatory to several treaties between the Chippewa (Ojibwe) tribes and the United States. His involvement in these agreements helped shape land cessions and intertribual relations during a critical period of westward expansion.

Which specific treaties did Chief Zhaagobe sign with the United States?

Chief Zhaagobe signed four key treaties with the United States: the 1825 Treaty of Prairie du Chien, the 1826 Treaty of Fond du Lac, the 1837 Treaty of St. Peters (also known as the White Pine Treaty), and the 1842 Treaty of La Pointe.

What is the meaning of the Ojibwe name Zhaagobe?

The Ojibwe name Zhaagobe translates to "Six" in English. This name was also reflected in some of the variations used to refer to him, such as "Little Six."

How is Zhaagobe depicted in historical records, particularly in the publication *History of the Indian Tribes of North America*?

Zhaagobe is depicted in *History of the Indian Tribes of North America* under the name "Jack-O-Pa – The Six." His portrait in this publication was painted by Charles Bird King, illustrating his significance as a recognized chief.

Describe the portrait of Jack-O-Pa mentioned in the article.

The source material references a portrait of Jack-O-Pa, also known as "The Six," which appears in the publication *History of the Indian Tribes of North America*. This portrait was painted by Charles Bird King.

Who was Chagobay, and what is the historical uncertainty surrounding his identity?

Chagobay was an Ojibwe man who served as a guide to the French geographer Joseph Nicollet during his 1836 expedition to the upper Mississippi River. Historians are uncertain whether this Chagobay was the same individual as Chief Zhaagobe, although the similarity in names and the context suggest a possible connection.

What journey did Chagobay undertake with Joseph Nicollet in 1836?

In 1836, Chagobay guided Joseph Nicollet on an expedition to the upper Mississippi River, accompanying him as far as Leech Lake. They departed from Saint Anthony Falls on July 29, 1836, along with another guide named Brunia.

What significant encounter did Nicollet and Chagobay have shortly after starting their journey in 1836?

On their first day of travel from Saint Anthony Falls, Nicollet and Chagobay encountered a large flotilla of Sioux canoes. These canoes belonged to a war party returning from a raid against the Chippewa.

What geographical knowledge did Chagobay share with Joseph Nicollet during their expedition?

Chagobay provided Nicollet with detailed information about the geography of the upper Mississippi River and its tributaries. This included descriptions of waterways such as Rice Creek, Coon Creek, Elm Creek, Wolf Creek, and Rocky Creek.

What cultural knowledge did Chagobay impart to Nicollet's companion, Brunia?

During their journey, Chagobay taught Brunia, Nicollet's half-French guide, how to identify constellations in the night sky. This demonstrates Chagobay's knowledge of astronomy and his willingness to share it.

What sensitive information did Chagobay reveal to Joseph Nicollet, and what were the consequences?

Chagobay revealed the secrets of the Ojibwe medicine ceremony to Nicollet, which he did at some personal risk. Following this revelation, a ceremony was held on September 29, 1836, conducted by Flat Mouth (Aysh-ke-bah-ke-ko-zhay), to absolve Chagobay of any guilt associated with sharing these sacred traditions.

What was the nature of the friendship between Joseph Nicollet and Chagobay?

Joseph Nicollet developed a close friendship with his Ojibwe guide, Chagobay. This bond is evidenced by the detailed accounts in Nicollet's journals and a letter dictated by Chagobay to Nicollet.

What did Chagobay send to Joseph Nicollet in a letter dated May 19, 1837, and what was its significance?

In the letter, Chagobay sent Nicollet bear claws and a skin from a small animal. He explained that these gifts were from his heart, meant to help Nicollet remember him, and symbolized his belief that keeping the skin would ensure a long life.

What were Chagobay's expressed wishes for his friendship with Nicollet?

Chagobay expressed a deep desire for their friendship to endure throughout their lives and to continue in the afterlife. He wished to "be friends while we live and meet in that good place and be friends after we die."

What specific items did Chagobay request from Joseph Nicollet in his letter?

Chagobay requested that Nicollet send him another shell, similar to one he had received the previous fall, via Brunette. He also asked Nicollet to write him a letter so he could hear directly from him.

How did Chagobay describe his financial situation in the letter to Nicollet?

Chagobay conveyed that he was still poor, stating he had not been able to pay his credit and lacked tobacco for his pipe. He mentioned that he would need to hunt in the spring to improve his situation.

Who is believed to have written Joseph Nicollet's reply to Chagobay's letter?

The handwriting on Nicollet's reply to Chagobay's letter has been identified as most likely belonging to Henry Hastings Sibley. Nicollet was staying with Sibley in Saint Peters (Mendota) at the time.

What was the purpose of the 1825 Treaty of Prairie du Chien?

The 1825 Treaty of Prairie du Chien was signed by numerous tribes, including the Dakota Sioux, Ojibwe, Sauk, Meskwaki, Menomonee, Iowa, Ho-Chunk, and Odawa. Its primary aims were to establish boundary lines between these tribes and to promote intertribal peace.

How was the Dakota chief Shakopee identified in the 1825 Treaty of Prairie du Chien?

The Dakota chief Shakopee signed the treaty under the "Sioux" section and was listed as "Sha-co-pe (the Sixth)." This indicates his prominence among the Dakota signatories.

What potential connection exists between the name "The-sees" in the 1825 treaty and Zhaagobe?

Under the "Chippewa" section of the 1825 Treaty of Prairie du Chien, a signatory is listed as "The-sees." This name is suggested to be a French pronunciation of "Six," potentially linking it to Zhaagobe, whose name also means "Six."

What was the main objective of the 1826 Treaty of Fond du Lac?

The 1826 Treaty of Fond du Lac aimed to bring all Ojibwe bands into agreement with the United States, particularly those who had not been present for the signing of the 1825 Treaty of Prairie du Chien. It sought to ensure adherence to the previously established boundary lines and peace agreements.

What significant mining rights did the 1826 Treaty of Fond du Lac grant to the United States?

Beyond affirming previous agreements, the 1826 Treaty of Fond du Lac granted the United States the right to search for and mine minerals within Ojibwe lands located near Lake Superior. This marked a step towards resource exploitation by the U.S. government.

How was a signatory from the River St. Croix identified in the 1826 Treaty of Fond du Lac?

In the 1826 Treaty of Fond du Lac, one of the Ojibwe signatories from the River St. Croix was recorded under the name "Chaucopee." This name is phonetically similar to Zhaagobe and "Six."

What misunderstanding existed among Ojibwe negotiators regarding the 1837 White Pine Treaty?

Evidence suggests that many Ojibwe negotiators believed they were only leasing the rights to use the pine forests for timber extraction, rather than permanently ceding ownership of the land itself. This highlights a potential communication gap or differing interpretations of the treaty terms.

How was a signatory from the Snake River band identified in the 1837 treaty?

A signatory from the Snake River band in the 1837 treaty was listed as "Sha-go-bai" or "the Little Six." This further connects the name "Six" and its variations to Zhaagobe and his band.

What lands were ceded by the Ojibwe in the 1842 Treaty of La Pointe?

The 1842 Treaty of La Pointe, negotiated on Madeline Island, resulted in the cession of the last remaining Ojibwe lands in northern Wisconsin and a portion of the Upper Peninsula to the United States. This treaty significantly reduced the Ojibwe territory under U.S. control.

What compensation did the Ojibwe receive for the lands ceded in the 1842 Treaty of La Pointe?

In exchange for the vast territories ceded in the 1842 Treaty of La Pointe, the Ojibwe were promised annual payments in the form of cash, goods, and other forms of compensation for a period of 25 years.

Who was identified as the first chief of the Snake River Ojibwe among the signatories of the 1842 Treaty of La Pointe?

Among the signatories of the 1842 Treaty of La Pointe, "Sha go bi" was listed as the first chief of the Snake River Ojibwe. This reinforces the identity of Zhaagobe as a prominent leader of that band.

What offer did Thomas L. McKenney make to Jack-O-Pa concerning his son at the 1826 Treaty of Fond du Lac?

At the signing of the 1826 Treaty of Fond du Lac, McKenney offered to take Jack-O-Pa's fourteen-year-old son back to Washington D.C. to provide him with an education. This was a common practice aimed at assimilation and cultural change.

How did Chief Jack-O-Pa respond to McKenney's offer to educate his son?

Chief Jack-O-Pa declined McKenney's offer, indicating his strong paternal bond. He gestured from his forehead downwards, signifying that parting with his son would be akin to being cut in two, demonstrating his deep emotional connection.

What does Jack-O-Pa's refusal to part with his son reveal about his character?

Jack-O-Pa's refusal reveals his profound love for his family, particularly his son, and his unwillingness to be separated from him, even for the promise of education in Washington. It underscores the importance of familial bonds within his culture.

What is the significance of the portrait of Jack-O-Pa painted by Charles Bird King?

The portrait of Jack-O-Pa by Charles Bird King, appearing in *History of the Indian Tribes of North America*, serves as a visual record of the chief. It captures his likeness and is associated with his identity as "The Six," a prominent figure in Ojibwe leadership during treaty negotiations.

What was the context of the Sioux canoes encountered by Chagobay and Nicollet on July 29, 1836?

The Sioux canoes encountered were part of a war party returning from a raid against the Chippewa. Nicollet identified them as coming from Lake Calhoun (Bde Maka Ska) and the village of Shakopee, indicating ongoing intertribal conflict.

What does the phrase "Little Six" signify in relation to Zhaagobe and Chagobay?

The phrase "Little Six" is a translation or variation of Zhaagobe's name, meaning "Six." Joseph Nicollet used this term, along with "Chagobay" and "Shago-bai," when referring to his Ojibwe guide, suggesting a potential identity link between the chief and the guide.

What was the primary purpose of the *History of the Indian Tribes of North America* publication mentioned in relation to Zhaagobe?

The *History of the Indian Tribes of North America* was a publication that documented portraits and information about Native American tribes. Zhaagobe's portrait and associated narrative appeared in this work, contributing to the historical record of Ojibwe leaders and their interactions with the U.S. government.

What does the inclusion of Zhaagobe's name on multiple treaties suggest about his standing among the Ojibwe?

Zhaagobe's consistent appearance as a signatory on treaties from 1825 to 1842 indicates his sustained importance and leadership role within the St. Croix Ojibwe community, particularly the Snake River band, during a period of significant land negotiations.

What was the geographical area primarily affected by the treaties Zhaagobe signed?

The treaties Zhaagobe signed primarily involved lands in the region that is now Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, as well as areas along the upper Mississippi River. These agreements led to the cession of significant Ojibwe territories in these locations.

How did the Ojibwe perceive the land transactions in the 1837 White Pine Treaty, according to the text?

According to the text, evidence suggests that Ojibwe negotiators in the 1837 treaty believed they were merely leasing the rights to cut timber from the pine forests, rather than permanently selling the land itself. This indicates a potential misunderstanding of the long-term implications of the treaty.

What is the significance of the reference to "Shakopee" in relation to both the Dakota and Ojibwe treaties?

The name "Shakopee" appears in relation to both Dakota and Ojibwe treaties. The Dakota chief Shakopee signed the 1825 treaty as "the Sixth," while the Ojibwe signatory "The-sees" in the same treaty might be a French pronunciation of "Six," and Zhaagobe himself means "Six." This suggests potential naming conventions or relationships between individuals and groups involved in treaty negotiations.

What role did missionary William Thurston Boutwell play in relation to Chagobay?

Missionary William Thurston Boutwell acted as a scribe, transcribing a letter dictated by Chagobay to Joseph Nicollet on May 19, 1837. This highlights the collaboration between missionaries, Native leaders, and explorers during this period.

What does the mention of "Flat Mouth" (Aysh-ke-bah-ke-ko-zhay) signify in the context of Chagobay's actions?

The mention of Flat Mouth conducting a ceremony to absolve Chagobay of guilt for revealing medicine ceremony secrets indicates Flat Mouth's role as a spiritual leader or elder within the Ojibwe community. It also underscores the seriousness with which such sacred knowledge was treated.

What does the phrase "bear claws which I take from my heart" imply in Chagobay's letter?

In Chagobay's letter, the phrase "bear claws which I take from my heart" suggests a deeply personal and significant offering. Bear claws often held symbolic meaning in Native American cultures, representing strength or spiritual power, and sending them "from his heart" emphasizes the sincerity and depth of his feelings towards Nicollet.

What does the request for "another shell" in Chagobay's letter suggest about his relationship with Nicollet?

Chagobay's request for another shell, similar to one previously given by Nicollet, implies a continuation of gift-giving and reciprocal exchange within their friendship. It shows Chagobay valued the items received from Nicollet and wished to maintain this aspect of their relationship.

What does the mention of "Saint Peters (Mendota)" signify in the context of Nicollet's reply to Chagobay?

The mention of Saint Peters (Mendota) indicates the location where Joseph Nicollet was staying when he received Chagobay's letter and likely composed his reply. It places the correspondence within a specific geographical and historical context in Minnesota.

What was the geographical scope of the lands ceded in the 1842 Treaty of La Pointe?

The 1842 Treaty of La Pointe involved the cession of the final significant Ojibwe landholdings in northern Wisconsin and a portion of the Upper Peninsula to the United States. This treaty marked a major territorial loss for the Ojibwe in that region.

What does the description of Jack-O-Pa as "quick in his movements, ardent" suggest about his demeanor?

The description suggests that Jack-O-Pa was an energetic and passionate individual. "Quick in his movements" implies physical agility and alertness, while "ardent" points to strong emotions or enthusiasm, painting a picture of a dynamic leader.

What does the gesture of running a finger from forehead downwards signify in Jack-O-Pa's refusal?

Jack-O-Pa's gesture of running his finger from his forehead downwards was a visual metaphor to express that separating him from his son would be like cutting him in two. It powerfully communicated the deep, integral bond he felt with his child.

What is the significance of the different spellings and variations of Zhaagobe's name across historical documents?

The variations in spelling (Zhaagobe, Jack-O-Pa, Shagobai, Chagobay, Chaucopee, Sha-go-bai, Sha go bi) and the English translation "Six" highlight the challenges of transliterating names from Indigenous languages and the different ways individuals and groups referred to him. It also underscores the potential confusion or overlap between different historical figures named "Six" or similar variations.

Zhaagobe Wiki: Zhaagobe: A St. Croix Ojibwe Leader's Encounters and Agreements

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Introduction: Chief Zhaagobe

Identity and Affiliation

Zhaagobe, also known by the names Jack-O-Pa or Shagobai, was a prominent chief of the St. Croix Ojibwe people. He led the band associated with the Snake River, a significant tributary within the traditional territories of the Ojibwe nation.

Historical Context

Operating in the early 19th century, Zhaagobe navigated a complex period marked by increasing United States expansion and the formalization of land agreements through treaties. His leadership involved critical interactions with U.S. officials and representatives.

Visual Representation

A notable portrait of Chief Zhaagobe, identified as "Jack-O-Pa – The Six," was created by the artist Charles Bird King. This portrait is featured in the significant historical compilation, History of the Indian Tribes of North America, offering a visual record of his presence and status.

Joseph Nicollet's Guide

A Scholarly Partnership

In 1836, Zhaagobe, referred to as Chagobay or "Little Six" in French transliterations, served as an essential guide for the French geographer Joseph Nicollet during his expedition to the upper Mississippi River region. This collaboration provided Nicollet with invaluable insights into the geography and Indigenous life of the area.

Historical Uncertainty

While Nicollet's journals detail his interactions with Chagobay, historian Martha Coleman Bray notes the lack of definitive evidence confirming that Nicollet's guide was indeed the same individual as Chief Zhaagobe of the Snake River band. This distinction remains a subject of scholarly consideration.

A Personal Letter

A poignant letter, dictated by Zhaagobe to missionary William Thurston Boutwell in May 1837, reveals a deep personal connection with Nicollet. The letter expresses sentiments of friendship, remembrance, and mutual respect, even referencing shared spiritual insights and the exchange of symbolic gifts.

In this excerpt, Zhaagobe conveys:

Friend Nicolette: My friend I think of you so much. I shake hands with you. I send these bear claws which I take from my heart that you may remember me... We will be friends while we live and meet in that good place and be friends after we die... I am afraid I shall not be able to pay my credit if I don't hunt this spring or else I would come and see you before you leave. The last time I saw you I was poor. I am still poor now. I have not tobacco to fill my pipe.

— Shâgobe, his mark X

Nicollet's reply, likely penned by Henry Hastings Sibley, underscores the reciprocal nature of their relationship.

Cultural Exchange

Beyond geographical mapping, Chagobay shared significant cultural knowledge with Nicollet, including details about Ojibwe constellations and the intricacies of the medicine ceremony. This exchange highlights the trust and respect developed between the chief and the geographer.

Treaty Engagements

Treaty of Prairie du Chien (1825)

Zhaagobe, listed under the Chippewa section as "The-sees" (a French phonetic rendering of "Six"), affixed his mark to this pivotal treaty. This agreement involved numerous tribes, including the Dakota Sioux, Ojibwe, Sauk, Meskwaki, Menominee, Iowa, and Ho-Chunk, and aimed to establish definitive boundaries between these nations and with the United States.

Treaty of Fond du Lac (1826)

This treaty sought to ensure all Ojibwe bands adhered to the terms established in the 1825 Prairie du Chien treaty. Notably, it granted the United States the right to explore and mine for minerals, particularly near Lake Superior. A signatory from the River St. Croix was recorded as "Chaucopee," likely Zhaagobe.

White Pine Treaty (1837)

Also known as the Treaty of St. Peters, this agreement saw the Ojibwe cede a substantial portion of their lands in present-day Wisconsin to the United States. While the Ojibwe negotiators may have understood this as a lease for timber extraction, the treaty ultimately led to the transfer of land ownership. Zhaagobe, identified as "Sha-go-bai" or "the Little Six," was among the signatories from the Snake River band.

Treaty of La Pointe (1842)

Negotiated on Madeline Island, this treaty marked the cession of the final Ojibwe territories in northern Wisconsin and parts of the Upper Peninsula to the United States. In exchange, the Ojibwe received annuities and goods over a 25-year period. "Sha go bi," identified as the first chief of the Snake River Ojibwe, signed this significant agreement.

Enduring Legacy

A Father's Devotion

Thomas L. McKenney, Superintendent of Indian Affairs, described Chief Jack-O-Pa as "an exceedingly active, sprightly fellow quick in his movements, ardent, and fond of his family." This sentiment was powerfully illustrated during the 1826 Treaty of Fond du Lac negotiations. McKenney offered to take Jack-O-Pa's fourteen-year-old son to Washington D.C. for education, a proposal the chief respectfully declined.

Jack-O-Pa's profound paternal bond was evident in his response:

Jack-O-Pa looked awhile and shaking his head, run his finger from his forehead downwards indicating that to part from his boy, would be like cutting him in two.

This anecdote underscores the deep value placed on family ties and the chief's commitment to his paternal responsibilities, even amidst significant diplomatic engagements.

Diplomatic Significance

Zhaagobe's consistent participation in multiple treaty negotiations highlights his crucial role as a diplomat and leader representing the interests of the St. Croix Ojibwe. His engagement with U.S. officials shaped the historical trajectory of his people's relationship with the expanding nation.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Zhaagobe Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon historical data and academic interpretations. It is intended for informational and educational purposes, providing a scholarly overview of Chief Zhaagobe's life and significance.

Historical Interpretation Advisory: While based on available sources, historical narratives, particularly concerning Indigenous history and treaty relations, can be complex and subject to ongoing scholarly discussion. This content aims for accuracy based on the provided source but does not represent the definitive or sole perspective on these events.

No Substitute for Primary Research: This information is not a substitute for in-depth primary source research or consultation with Indigenous historians and knowledge keepers. The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations or actions taken based solely on the information presented here.

Zhaagobe: A St. Croix Ojibwe Leader's Encounters and Agreements

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Introduction: Chief Zhaagobe 👤

🌿 Identity and Affiliation

🗓️ Historical Context

🖼️ Visual Representation

Joseph Nicollet's Guide 🗺️

🤝 A Scholarly Partnership

❓ Historical Uncertainty

✍️ A Personal Letter

⭐ Cultural Exchange

Treaty Engagements 📜

⚖️ Treaty of Prairie du Chien (1825)

⛏️ Treaty of Fond du Lac (1826)

🌲 White Pine Treaty (1837)

🏞️ Treaty of La Pointe (1842)

Enduring Legacy 🌟

👨‍👦 A Father's Devotion

🌐 Diplomatic Significance

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction: Chief Zhaagobe

Identity and Affiliation

Historical Context

Visual Representation

Joseph Nicollet's Guide

A Scholarly Partnership

Historical Uncertainty

A Personal Letter

Cultural Exchange

Treaty Engagements

Treaty of Prairie du Chien (1825)

Treaty of Fond du Lac (1826)

White Pine Treaty (1837)

Treaty of La Pointe (1842)

Enduring Legacy

A Father's Devotion

Diplomatic Significance

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice