The Cherokee and the Trail of Tears
In The Cherokee and the Trail of Tears, learn how the Cherokee Nation, originally from the southeastern U.S., was forced to give up most of its land to the U.S. government in the 1800s. Despite adopting Western ways, they were relocated after President Andrew Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act in 1830. This led to the tragic Trail of Tears, where thousands of Cherokees died during the journey. However, the Cherokee rebuilt their nation in Oklahoma, with Tahlequah becoming their capital.
Lesson Express
Q: How did the Cherokees' adaptation to Western civilization impact their treatment by the U.S. government?
A: The Cherokees' adaptation to Western civilization, such as adopting European farming techniques, building schools, and using written language, made their forced removal seem unjust to some at the time, as they were trying to assimilate peacefully into American society. However, the government still pushed for their relocation.
Q: What was the significance of the Treaty of New Echota and how did it affect the Cherokee people?
A: The Treaty of New Echota, signed by a small faction of the Cherokee, led to the cession of all Cherokee lands east of the Mississippi River in exchange for compensation and new lands in Indian Territory. Despite opposition from the majority of the Cherokee people, the treaty was ratified by the U.S. Senate and forced the Cherokee to relocate, marking a tragic chapter in their history.
Q: Why was the Indian Removal Act passed, and how did it contribute to the suffering of the Cherokee people?
A: The Indian Removal Act was passed in 1830 under President Andrew Jackson to open up southeastern land for white settlers. It led to the forced removal of the Cherokee and other tribes from their ancestral lands, causing immense suffering, death, and loss as they were forced to march on the Trail of Tears.
More Like This
In Inside the Indian Relay Race, learn about the thrilling tradition of the Indian Relay, a horse race held in the Rockies. Oliver, a trainer, shares how he and his family prepare for the race, training for months to master the tricky skill of jumping from one horse to another — bareback! The relay is filled with excitement, as riders complete three laps while switching horses after each round. With skill, preparation, and a bit of tradition, Oliver and his family bring pride to their tribe as they race to victory! This video is excerpted from BBC’s Mountains — Life Above the Clouds, which showcases wildlife thriving in the world's highest mountains.
In The Iroquois Legacy, explore the complex relationship between Native Americans and European settlers. Long before the U.S. Constitution, the Iroquois created their own constitution and political system, influencing Founding Fathers like Benjamin Franklin and John Adams. Despite this influence, the Iroquois faced difficult relationships with European settlers, including conflicts over land and the eventual destruction of their alliance during the American Revolution. Many Iroquois were forced to flee to Canada, where their descendants still live today.
In Inside the Indian Relay Race, learn about the thrilling tradition of the Indian Relay, a horse race held in the Rockies. Oliver, a trainer, shares how he and his family prepare for the race, training for months to master the tricky skill of jumping from one horse to another — bareback! The relay is filled with excitement, as riders complete three laps while switching horses after each round. With skill, preparation, and a bit of tradition, Oliver and his family bring pride to their tribe as they race to victory! This video is excerpted from BBC’s Mountains — Life Above the Clouds, which showcases wildlife thriving in the world's highest mountains.
In The Iroquois Legacy, explore the complex relationship between Native Americans and European settlers. Long before the U.S. Constitution, the Iroquois created their own constitution and political system, influencing Founding Fathers like Benjamin Franklin and John Adams. Despite this influence, the Iroquois faced difficult relationships with European settlers, including conflicts over land and the eventual destruction of their alliance during the American Revolution. Many Iroquois were forced to flee to Canada, where their descendants still live today.