Explore the origins, meaning, and cultural significance of the phrase 'bury the hatchet,' a cliché denoting peacemaking and truce, with historical roots in Native American customs.
To “bury the hatchet” signifies the act of making peace or calling a truce between conflicting parties. It embodies the resolution of conflict and the establishment of harmony.
The phrase “bury the hatchet” finds its origins in a ceremonial practice among some Native American tribes, where a tomahawk or hatchet was buried as a symbolic gesture of peace. This custom was first documented by Samuel Sewell in 1680 and has been referenced in various accounts of early American colonial interactions with Native Americans. The metaphor was popularized in literature, notably appearing in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s poem “The Song of Hiawatha,” which contributed to its widespread adoption by the late 19th century as a cliché for peacemaking on both sides of the Atlantic.
The phrase carries connotations of reconciliation and the cessation of hostilities. It implies a deliberate decision to put aside differences and work towards mutual understanding and cooperation. In contemporary usage, it may also suggest a pragmatic approach to resolving disputes, often with an underlying recognition of past grievances.
“Bury the hatchet” is frequently employed in both formal and informal discourse to describe the resolution of conflicts, whether personal, political, or international. It has been referenced in literature, speeches, and media as a symbol of peacemaking. For instance, in modern political rhetoric, leaders may use the phrase to emphasize the importance of diplomatic efforts and reconciliation.
In a professional context, “bury the hatchet” may refer to resolving business disputes or negotiating agreements. In social settings, it can describe the mending of personal relationships. Historically, it has been used in diplomatic contexts to signify treaties or peace accords.
The phrase “bury the hatchet” remains relevant in contemporary discourse due to its evocative imagery and enduring significance as a symbol of peace. Its usage continues to resonate across various contexts, reflecting a universal desire for harmony and reconciliation. Durability: ★★★★☆
“Thus departed Hiawatha / To the regions of the North-West, / To the land of the Dacotahs, / To the land of handsome women.” - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, The Song of Hiawatha