William Johnson (trader)

Sir William Johnson was born in Ireland but had immigrated to the British North American colonies in 1737. His uncle ceded him some land in the Mowhawk Valley. He expanded his holdings throughout the 1740s. He built a grand hall in the Georgian style that still stands. He was friendly with the Mowhawk. He learned to speak their language and was very influential with them and other neighboring Iroquois. It was largely through Johnson's influence that the Iroquois sided with the British in the French and Indian War.

He led a force of militia and Indians against the French in the Battle of Lake George. Parliament rewarded his victory there with letters and a baronet.

In 1756, he was appointed British agent for all of the Indians north of the Ohio River.