Question

H ow does Tecumseh’s speech illustrate differences between Indian and American views of land as private property?

Answer 1

Tecumseh's speech at Vincennes shows clearly his conception of land as being common property for his people in that he says that selling land is like selling the air, clouds and "the great sea" and that any chief that sells land to the white man will be killed by him.

Answer 2

Tecumseh believes that the use of land should not be by individuals from the private community. HE sees land as a shared resource that should be used by all. He disagrees with the exclusive use of land. This issue became a major conflict between the Indians and the Americans.