In the early 1700s, two culturally diverse groups converged on a land of promise in search of a new life. Communities of runaway slaves (Maroons and Gullahs) from Georgia and South Carolina sought freedom under the Spanish and emigrated to Florida. Spain had abolished the practice of slavery within its North American domain through a royal decree in 1693, making the region an ideal location for these communities. In addition to the promise of freedom, Spain offered land in exchange for a commitment to the defense of their settlements. At the same time, several bands of Creek Indians separated from their nation and left Georgia to settle new territory. They too happened upon the chance of a fresh start in Florida.
In Service for Self
In order to maintain its control of the region, the Spanish government organized the Maroons and Indians into a territorial militia. In exchange for military service, both groups were granted title to large tracts of lands on which they could settle. The Creek bands rapidly established a nation of their own and began calling themselves the Seminole--most likely a derivation of the Spanish word for runaway. Additionally, the Maroons and Gullahs were able to organize their own independent communities--becoming de facto nations. To ensure that they would be able to prosper free from the specter of slavery, these communities organized their own militias. To those still in bondage, they offered a beacon of hope.
Contact Between the Nations
During the years of simultaneous migration, Maroon and Seminole communities came into contact with one another. Serving together in the territorial militia that had been organized by the Spanish allowed for even greater interaction between these groups. Through their service, the Maroons communities were able to acquire a practical knowledge of Spanish; the application of which would make them valuable as intermediaries and interpreters for the Seminole. Gradually, the two groups would intensify their relationship to the point where they would become constituent elements of the same nation. While by no means a homogenous entity, the bond between the Maroon communities and the Seminole Nation would continue to grow strong in years of peace and war.
Blending of Cultures
Maroon and Gullah culture developed in proximity to but quite independently of the Seminole. Already in possession of a diverse background, consisting of a mixture of African and slave traditions, these groups also integrated Spanish and Native American traits into their new cultural identity.
Beacon of Hope
By the early 1800s, knowledge of these free black communities had spread into the United States. Whispers became rumors. Rumors spread among plantations and those slaves who did manage to escape headed into Florida. Both the Seminole and the free black communities of Florida welcomed these refugees. Accepting sanctuary among these communities, many enjoyed their first taste of freedom.
Sources:
Mark M. Boatner III, Encyclopedia of the American Revolution. (Mechanicsburg: Stackpole Books, 1994).
Mark C Carnes, Ed. U.S. History. (New York: MacMillan Library Reference, 1998).
Peter Matthiessen, ed. George Catlin: North American Indians. (New York: Penguin Group, 1989).
Marilyn Miller and Martin Faux, American History Desk Reference. (New York: MacMillan, 1997).
Carl Waldman, Atlas of the North American Indian. (New York: Checkmark Books, 2000).
Carl Waldman, Encyclopedia of Native Tribes. (New York: Checkmark Books, 2006).
Join the Conversation