Superintendent of Indian Affairs

Within the British government in North America, there exists an Indian Department which is charged with maintaining the relationship between the British Empire and the First Nations of North America. Created in 1755, the first commissioned Superintendent of Indian Affairs was Sir William Johnson, 1st Baronet of New York. He was granted the position largely due to his existing relationship with the Mohawk nation. His commission gave him control of the Northern Department, covering the area north of the Ohio River. A second Superintendent was named to oversee the Southern Department, Edmond Atkins
Previous to the creation of the Indian Department, relations with the various nations were handled individually by each of the Provinces of British North America. Due to the outbreak of the French and Indian War, the British forces made the decision to centralize the diplomatic and trade negotiations with the Indian nations. The primary goal of the Indian Department was to dissuade Indian nations from allying with the French in North America or at least encourage them to maintain neutrality. 
Once the French and Indian war ended, the Indian Department was maintained and given more authority under the Royal Proclamation of 1763. The purpose of the Indian Department shifted to protecting Indians from exploitation from traders and land speculators. 
In addition to their civilian duties, the Indian Department served as a liaison between the Indian nations and the British forces during war time, encouraging their Indian allies to provide auxiliary troupes to support British forces in North America.

Appointment

Appointment to the office of Superintendent of Indian Affairs is conferred by the Home Office in London on the advice of the Commander-in-Chief of the British Forces in North America.

Responsibilities

The Superintendent of Indian Affairs is a senior officer of the Indian Department and is responsible for managing relations with the Indian peoples of North America and the British Empire. The office regulates trade and interactions between the Indians and the Europeans in the country.

Type

Civic, Diplomatic

Creation

1755

Form of Address

Excellency

Source of Authority

George the Third, by the Grace of God, King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and so forth