A. Report of the Secretary of War, in Compliance with a Resolution of the Senate of the 21st Ultimo ... Relative to the Indian Disturbances in the Territories of Washington and Oregon, published 1856. This 68-page report details the Indian War of 1855 in Washington and Oregon and the conflict between the Territorial Governors Curry (Oregon) and Stevens (Washington) and General Wool. The uprisings by several tribes were caused by delays and confusion regarding treaties not fully understood by the Indian tribes. The Governors called on volunteers to defend against Indian attacks until the military under General Wool arrived. Wool refused to support the volunteers whom he believed intended to exterminate all Indians. Wool believed he could make peace with the Indians if the Governors withdrew the volunteers who operated outside his control. The report contains sharply critical communications among the Governors and Wool. Disbound. Condition: Mostly clean and bright. (A)

B. Indian Affairs in Oregon and Washington Territories, &c. Message from the President of the United States, Transmitting, … Correspondence and Documents Relating to Indian Affairs in Oregon and Washington Territories, &c., published 1858. This 21-page report concerned the status of treaties that had been negotiated with various tribes (but not yet ratified by the Congress) and J. Ross Browne’s role in advising the tribes. Gen. N.S. Clarke and some Indian agents believed the tribes did not want the treaties because the concept and implications of treaties (e.g., moving to reservations) were not understood and that treaties had not been negotiated with the genuine tribal leadership. Clarke believed a “serious war” would ensue if the treaties were enforced, and he issued directions to the military that the treaties were not in force. Browne advised the tribes that the treaties would be confirmed. The confusion about the treaties contributed to ongoing hostilities which continued until 1858 when troops commanded by Colonel Wright won two decisive battles. Disbound. Condition: Light toning. (B+)

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