During the Revolutionary War, colonists wanted Native Americans to play roles primarily as scouts, soldiers, and allies who could provide critical support in battles and strategic operations. Both the British and the American colonists sought Native American support, hoping to leverage their knowledge of the land, guerrilla warfare skills, and alliances to gain an advantage. Key roles Native Americans were expected to fulfill included:

• Scouts and Spies: Native Americans were valued for their ability to navigate and gather intelligence in difficult terrain, which was crucial for both British and American forces

• Soldiers and Warriors: Many Native Americans fought alongside either the British or the American colonists. Some tribes, like the Oneida and Stockbridge-Mohican, sided with the Americans, while others, such as the Mohawk, allied with the British

• Diplomatic Allies: Native nations were courted by both sides to secure alliances that would help protect their lands and influence the outcome of the war

The colonists hoped that Native Americans who sided with them would help defend their territories and contribute to military campaigns. However, many Native Americans were cautious, as they feared that an American victory would lead to greater westward expansion and loss of their lands. The British had an advantage in maintaining Native alliances due to their policies limiting colonial encroachment and their established trading relationships

. In summary, colonists wanted Native Americans to serve as scouts, soldiers, and strategic allies during the war, using their expertise in guerrilla tactics and knowledge of the land to support military efforts and protect mutual interests