Native & Early History

The early history of Georgia represents the struggle between many different cultures; including the indigenous chiefdoms of the Mocama and Guale Indians, Spanish Missionaries, British traders, and later the introduction of various tribes of Creek Indians. A branch of the Creek Indian nation, the Yamacraw tribe, located near Savannah, Georgia favored British interests over those of the Spanish in Saint Augustine, Florida. Without assistance from Tomochichi and Mary Musgrove, General James Oglethorpe's vision of the founding of Georgia, and War with Spain might have had a different outcome.

 

Spanish Missions in Georgia
From New Georgia Encyclopedia Online
The Spanish chapter of Georgia's earliest history is the mission era, from 1568 - 1684. Catholic missions were used to assimulate Georgia's native chiefdoms into the Spanish colonial system on the frontier of Spanish Florida.

For more information: www.georgiaencyclopedia.org/articles/arts-culture/spanish-missions

 

Tomochichi (ca. 1644-1739)
From New Georgia Encyclopedia Online
This chief of the Yamacraw Indians, is a prominent character of early Georgia history. He served as the principal mediator between the native population and the new English settlers during the first years of settlement.

For more information: www.georgiaencyclopedia.org/articles/history-archaeology/tomochichi-ca-1644-1739

 

Mary Musgrove (ca. 1700-ca. 1763)
From New Georgia Encyclopedia Online
Coosaponakeesa (Creek name) served as a liaison between colonial Georgia and her Native American community in the mid-18th century. Mary Musgrove used her status to promote Creek interests and expand trade.

For more information:https://www.georgiaencyclopedia.org/articles/history-archaeology/mary-musgrove-ca-1700-ca-1763