Jackson and the Cherokee (Trail of Tears)

In this discussion you will look at a historical situation—Indian Removal—from the participant’s perspective. This activity will allow you to “think historically” about the challenges faced by the Cherokee people as they grappled with the U.S. government’s Indian removal policy. The purpose of this discussion is to help you analyze the trials faced by one cultural group in American society and recognize the role of cultural diversity in American life. (Meets Course Learning Objectives: 5, 6, and 10)

Suggested Readings (Possible Sources):

• Memorial of the Cherokee Nation (1829): http://www.teachushistory.org/indian-removal/resources/memorial-cherokee-nation-december-1829
• Memorial of the Cherokee Nation (1830): http://www.teachushistory.org/indian-removal/resources/memorial-delegation-cherokee-nation-indians
• Cherokee Address to the American People (1830): http://www.wcu.edu/library/DigitalCollections/CherokeePhoenix/Vol3/no14/3no14_p1-c1B.htm
• Andrew Jackson, “Second Annual Message to Congress” (1830): http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia/part4/4h3437t.html
• John Marshall, “Worcester v. Georgia” (1832): http://www.civics-online.org/library/formatted/texts/worcester.html
• Andrew Jackson, “Seventh Annual Message to Congress” (1835): http://www.pbs.org/weta/thewest/resources/archives/two/removal.htm
• John Ross, “Letter Defending the Cherokee’s Right to their Land” (1836): http://www.teachushistory.org/indian-removal/resources/letter-ross-defending-cherokees-right-their-land

Directions

When you review these documents concerning events that led up to the Trail of Tears, pay attention to the legal arguments offered, as well as to the viewpoints of those involved in the struggle. In at least three paragraphs (more is perfectly acceptable), write an appeal to the American people from the perspective of a Cherokee in 1836. Keep in mind events and legal realities of the time.