72.) In 1999, United States President William Clinton, wrote a letter to the people gathered in Canandaigua, NY to celebrate the Treaty of 1794 between the Iroquois Nations and the United States. Here is that letter, officially recognizing the "Six Nations and the United States as sovereign entities". Haudenosaunee Chief Vincent Johnson stated that this treaty was signed because George Washington surrendered to the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. (2 min. read)
And in the 1980s, William Barr who was then the Personal Attorney to President Ronald Reagan, agreed with Chief Vincent Johnson, that yes in fact, George Washington did surrender to the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. William Barr also related to Chief Johnson, that in private, he will refer to them as the Haudenosaunee, but in public the government will never refer to them as the Haudenosaunee or the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. William Barr continued and said the United States will only refer to the Haudenosaunee in public as the Iroquois or Six Nations.
The Treaty of 1794, is also commonly referred to as the Canandaigua Treaty.
Here is the letter in its entirety:
The White House
Washington
November 10th, 1999
Warm greetings to everyone gathered in Canandaigua, New york, to celebrate the Treaty of 1794 between the Iroquois Nations and the United States.
This historic treaty, signed by President Washington, recognize the Six Nations and the United States as sovereign entities. Article 1 of this landmark document also established a foundation for peace and friendship between the people of the United States and the members of the Iroquois Nations. Now, more than two centuries later, we continue to build on this relationship, living side by side, learning from one another, appreciating one another's culture, and celebrating the gift of democracy that we all cherish.
In observing this special day, we honor the invaluable contributions of Native America throughout our history. Tribal America has brought to this country important values and ideas that have become ingrained in the American spirit: the knowledge that humans can thrive and prosper without destroying the natural environment; the understanding that people from very different backgrounds, cultures, religions, and traditions can come together to build a stronger future for their children; and the awareness that diversity can be a source of strength rather than division. As we continue to work towards these common goals and to strengthen our lasting friendship, I extend best wishes to all for a memorable event.
Bill Clinton
(End of letter)