Native American Treaties and The Trail of Tears Flashcards
What were the treaties?
During 1778-1830, Congress continued to make treaties with Native Americans in territories ceded by Britain
The goal of these treaties were to ensure the safety of the settlers and obtain clear ownership of the land.
Clearly set out the boundaries of Native American territory and recognised their control over it, essentially recognising them as independent nations within the US
Prevented American citizens from entering or settling without permission
What were the limitations of the treaties?
Congress was unable and unwilling to enforce them due to fear of losing settlers’ votes
State governments often resisted and ignored treaties signed by the federal government
Americans viewed their culture as superior and attempted to assimilated with Native American tribes
What caused the Indian Removal Act?
Since immigration was increasing, there was more demand for land
After gold was discovered on Cherokee land in 1829, there was an influx of settlers and land speculators
What were the impacts of the Indian Removal Act (1830) signed by President Jackson in general?
Led to the removal of roughly 100,000 Native Americans from their land
Allowed President to create reservations for tribes in areas west of the Mississipi
By 1837, almost all Native American tribes east of the Mississipi had been removed from the United States
What were the impacts of the Indian Removal Act in regard to the Trail of Tears
In 1830: The Choctaw were the first tribe to agree to the relocation of around 17,000 people, but malnutrition and disease as a result of government corruption and incompetence killed 2500-6000 during the journey
In 1832, the Creek agreed to move, but settlers delayed the move by moving into the land prematurely. 3500 people died during the journey due to the delay and government incompetence.
1832: Chickasaw refused government compensation and funded their own relocation by selling their land
The majority of the Seminole refused to accept removal and violently resisted, leading to the 2nd Seminole War in 1835.
Cherokee attempted to use legal action, eventually having two Supreme Court case held in 1931 to 1932.
