Ohio Frontier

Definition

The Ohio frontier refers to the region encompassing present-day Ohio, as well as parts of surrounding states like Indiana and Illinois, during a specific historical period when it was a contested area between Native American tribes, European powers, and American settlers.

Related terms

Northwest Ordinance: A law passed by Congress in 1787 that provided a framework for organizing territories in the Northwest Territory (which included Ohio). It outlined how new states could be admitted to the Union and guaranteed certain rights to settlers.

Fort Necessity: A small fortification built by George Washington during the French and Indian War at Great Meadows in Pennsylvania (near present-day Farmington). This event marked one of Washington's first military experiences.

Battle of Fallen Timbers: A decisive conflict that took place in 1794 near present-day Toledo, Ohio, between United States forces led by General Anthony Wayne and Native American tribes allied with Britain. The U.S. victory led to increased settlement in the region.