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Today in History: Seattle Ordinance Expels Native Americans from Town

2/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 7, 1865, Seattle's trustees enacted an ordinance expelling Native Americans from the newly incorporated town. This decision marked a significant moment in the city's history, reflecting the broader patterns of displacement faced by Indigenous peoples during westward expansion in the United States. The ordinance underscored the tensions between settlers and Native communities.

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Story summary

On February 7, 1865, Seattle's trustees enacted an ordinance expelling Native Americans from the newly incorporated town. This decision marked a significant moment in the city's history, reflecting the broader patterns of displacement faced by Indigenous peoples during westward expansion in the United States. The ordinance underscored the tensions between settlers and Native communities.