Molly Brant, Heroine
of the People
Born about 1736, Molly Brant, or as the Aboriginal people
called her, Degonwadonti, was a member of a prominent Mohawk family. She
lived in the Ohio Valley. About 1759, she became the life partner of Sir
William Johnson, the Superintendent of Aboriginal Affairs in the province
of New York and a powerful figure in that colony. Well-educated and a
persuasive speaker, Molly Brant wielded great influence among the Iroquois
and was responsible for much of Johnson's success in dealing with them.
Molly and her brother, Joseph, played a leading role in persuading the
Iroquois Confederacy to support Britain during the American Revolution. In
1777, she fled to Canada, fearing capture by the American colonists who
were angry with her for warning the British of their plan to attack Fort
Stanwix.
After the war, in recognition of her services, she was granted a pension
by the government. Molly settled in Cataraqui, which is now called
Kingston. Her new home became the meeting place for Aboriginal leaders.
She became their advisor. She also held an honoured place amongst the
English. She died in 1796.
Molly Brant was a remarkable woman. In her lifetime she commanded respect
from both Aboriginal people and white people too. She served her people
with dignity, honour and distinction as a wonderful mother and a superior
leader. |
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