Tecumseh was a prominent Native American leader of the Shawnee tribe, born around 1768 in what is now Ohio. He is best known for his efforts to unite various Indigenous nations against the encroachment of European settlers on their lands. Tecumseh believed that a united front was essential for the survival of Native American cultures and territories. In the early 19th century, Tecumseh played a significant role in the War of 1812, aligning with the British against the United States. His leadership and vision inspired many, but he was ultimately killed in the Battle of the Thames in 1813, which marked a turning point in the struggle for Native American sovereignty.