Chainbreaker

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Chainbreaker, painted by John Phillips, 1845
Chainbreaker, painted by John Phillips, 1845

Chainbreaker, also known as Governor Blacksnake and Tah-won-ne-ahs (c.1760 - 1859), was a Seneca warchief, who, along with other Iroquois leaders (most notably Joseph Brant), fought on the side of the British during the American Revolutionary War from 1777 to 1783, most notably at the Battle of Oriskany.

He was born near Seneca Lake in western New York. His date of birth is also variously given, sometimes as early as 1749, making him about 109 when he died.

Afterwards, he became reconciled to the outcome of the war and fought on the American side in the War of 1812. In later life, his political influence waned, as younger men of the Seneca assumed control.

Cornplanter was his uncle, and Handsome Lake his nephew. Blacksnake was a member of the Wolf Clan.

He died on the Allegany Reservation in Cattaraugus County, New York.

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