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The Johnstown conference was held during a critical moment in the American Revolution. The Continental Congress and New York officials were attempting to secure the allegiance—or at least the neutrality—of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy). The Six Nations were divided: Oneida and Tuscarora leaned toward the American cause. Mohawk, Seneca, Cayuga, and Onondaga leaned toward or allied with the British. Lafayette, then a young major general serving under George Washington, was sent to the Mohawk Valley to help stabilize the frontier and strengthen alliances.

Lafayette attended the March 1778 Johnstown conference of the Six Nations as a representative of the Continental Army. His presence symbolized America's commitment to diplomacy with Native nations. The Oneida, in particular, viewed Lafayette favorably because of his reputation for fairness and his advocacy for Native allies. The Mohawk Valley was a volatile frontier. Securing Oneida support helped protect American settlements from raids. His meeting with the tribal officials at then-Fort Johnstown had mixed results, with two of the six nations joining his side.

Learn about Revolutionary War Combat Strategy. Watch the Revolutionary War . For a summary, read An Overview of the American Revolution.