There is indeed a shared culture between Native American’s, Europeans, Africans in Florida. There are many examples of this. For one they all grew up in relative close proximity so they had many interactions. They also practiced similar traditions. Religion was important in all of their cultures although separate. The Native Americans did not practice Christianity. The Europeans were Christians. Africans often times had practiced similar forms of Christianity to the Europeans but it was a broken off sect of a similar group. All of the groups owned slaves in Florida including some free blacks. There was much trade and commerce between all three groups. It is true that at times there were conflicts between these groups especially between Native Americans and Europeans and slave owners and the slaves. Native Americans taught the Europeans information about the environment and Europeans provided Native Americans with tools that improved the Native Americans’ livelihood.
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I believe there is somewhat of a shared culture between the Native Americans, Europeans, and Africans in Florida. McGillivray is a perfect example of a mediator between the white's and the Native Americans. We also know that the Creek Native Americans had former slaves who could be successfully integrated into the tribe. Also, even earlier evidence shows how Florida's lack of governmental control, and sparse population, some white people could even marry a former slave. I believe that Florida was probably one of the most cultural states during this early chapter of america. There is evidence today that this was true. Florida is the southernmost state, yet seems to dodge the whole "deep south" image associated with other southern states.
Yes, Florida contained a myriad of cultures stemming from the white elitist Europeans to the African slaves transported from West Africa to the Creek and Seminole Indians who lived off the land for many years. The relationships between each culture varies and therefore gives each of their interactions unique dynamics. When I try to put myself in this time period, I find it extremely difficult because I'm not use to the idea of owning another human being. It would be hard living in Florida in general without the comforts of today's utilities, let alone the early warning system of severe thunderstorms.
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