French had a lower threat level generation amongst natives (you can encroach into their territories more without generating hostilities). But as far as I rememb

French had a lower threat level generation amongst natives (you can encroach into their territories more without generating hostilities). But as far as I remember, when you declared independence, the natives always ally themselves with the royal forces, so it makes sense to get rid of them before (especially if you've been supplying them with horses and muskets).