The vast prairie of Illinois that became known as the Sangamon Country was a favored place for Native American nations such as the Kickapoo and Potawatomi. The soil was rich for growing corn, game was abundant, and there was close proximity to rivers and streams.By the end of the War of 1812, the Kickapoo were the principal inhabitants of the Sangamon Country, but settlers were lining up like runners at the start of a marathon race to get a piece...