Neolin
Neolin was a significant spiritual leader and prophet of the Lenni Lenape (Delaware) tribe who emerged in the 1760s during a period of heightened tension between Native Americans and European settlers. He became known for his teachings that urged a return to traditional ways of life, emphasizing the renunciation of European influences, such as alcohol and trade. These spiritual laws, according to Neolin, were revealed to him by the Master of Life during a mystical experience. His teachings resonated with other Indigenous leaders, including Pontiac, who sought to unite various tribes against colonial encroachment. Pontiac's resistance, influenced by Neolin's predictions of victory, led to notable military actions against British forces. However, following the eventual defeat of this resistance, Neolin's influence waned, and little is known about his life after 1770. Neolin's legacy remains a pivotal aspect of the history and spirituality of the Lenni Lenape and the struggles of Native Americans during this era.
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Neolin
- Born: Unknown
- Birthplace: Unknown
- Died: Unknown
- Place of death: Unknown
Category: Native American prophet
Affiliation: Lenni Lenape (Delaware)
Significance: Neolin, an important religious leader in the mid-eighteenth century, was known for his renunciation of European influence
While little is known of his early life, Neolin came into prominence as a Lenni Lenape (Delaware) prophet and spiritual leader in the 1760s during Pontiac’s efforts to unite Native Americans against European settlers. Neolin’s requirements for salvation included the renunciation of all European influence, especially liquor; the avoidance all trade; and a return to a traditional way of life. These laws were reportedly given to him by the Master of Life, whom Neolin had met in heaven in a mystical experience.
Pontiac believed that his efforts were strengthened by his adherence to Neolin’s teachings. The Ottawa chief, most noted for the coordinated attack on English outposts in the Great Lakes area in the 1760s, captured eight British forts and forced the abandonment of a ninth. Neolin predicted Pontiac’s defeat of the Europeans. When Pontiac's Resistance was ultimately defeated, Neolin’s position was greatly diminished; little is known of him after 1770.
Bibliography
“Neolin's Vision.” Our American Revolution, www.ouramericanrevolution.org/index.cfm/page/view/m0168. Accessed 24 May 2023.
“Ottawa Chief Pontiac’s Rebellion against the British Begins.” History, 4 May 2021, www.history.com/this-day-in-history/pontiacs-rebellion-begins. Accessed 24 May 2023.