The Negotiator: Billy Caldwell

The Negotiator: Billy Caldwell

As one of the treaty signers in 1829 and 1833, Billy Caldwell and others negotiated the sale of 5,000,000 acres of land in northwest Illinois, resulting in the removal of all Native American tribes in the state of Illinois.

Billy Caldwell, also known by his Indian name, Sauganash, was an influential figure in both Native American and early American history. Born in 1780 after the Revolutionary War to a British Army officer and a Mohawk mother, he grew up amidst a confluence of cultures—British, Irish, and Indigenous. He later became a prominent chief of the Potawatomi people, known for his diplomatic skills and efforts to negotiate land treaties with the U.S. government during a time of great upheaval for Native American tribes in the Midwest. Caldwell's legacy includes his work on two important treaties here in Chicago, the 1829 Treaty of Prairie du Chien and the 1833 Treaty of Chicago, which not only resulted in the cession of vast tracts of land but also helped secure land for his people, ensuring their future during a time of forced relocations and growing tensions between Native tribes and the U.S. government.

Beyond his political and diplomatic work, Billy Caldwell is remembered for the complexity of his life. He straddled two worlds—advocating for his Native community while also navigating the growing American political landscape. His efforts to preserve peace during turbulent times, and his ultimate displacement with his people, reflect the broader story of Native American resilience and adaptation in the face of colonial expansion.

Caldwell’s life can be seen as a mirror to the struggles and complexities faced by many Native American leaders during the 19th century, torn between survival and resistance. His story opens up discussions on how we remember historical figures and the perspectives that are often left out of mainstream narratives. The fact that he is not more widely known speaks to the erasure of Native history in the American consciousness, something we hope to change with the projects we’re working on.

Caldwell had a remarkable ability to navigate both Native American and U.S. political spheres during a time of incredible turmoil. His life represents a bridge between two very different cultures, and his efforts to protect the rights of his people while negotiating with the U.S. government resonate deeply with me. His story speaks to themes of identity, resilience, and leadership—issues that are as relevant today as they were in his time.

Caldwell’s story is more than just a historical curiosity—it’s a lens through which we can explore broader themes of cultural survival, adaptability, and the negotiation of identity. His life intersects with some of the most critical moments in early American history, including the westward expansion, the displacement of Native peoples, and the growth of Chicago as a major urban center. Understanding his role in these events offers us a deeper, more nuanced view of our shared history.

Caldwell’s life also invites us to think about how we tell history—whose stories get remembered, and whose are forgotten? By focusing on him, I aim to shift the spotlight toward Indigenous contributions and influence on American history, particularly in the Midwest. His life story is a vital piece of the puzzle that has been missing from the narrative for far too long.

Together with leaders and elders from the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, we have spearheaded several initiatives aimed at raising awareness of Billy Caldwell’s contributions. The most prominent is a documentary film, The Negotiator: Billy Caldwell, that explores his life, focusing on his role as a diplomat and leader of the Potawatomi people. Additionally, we are working on educational outreach programs in schools across the Midwest to integrate his story into curriculums, so students can learn about this important figure and his impact on Native American history and the development of Chicago. We have a 40-minute school film and a complete curriculum companion with it.