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Trail of Tears Research Paper Topics

This page presents a comprehensive guide to Trail of Tears research paper topics , tailored for students of history who seek to delve into this tragic chapter of American history. From an extensive list of topics to valuable tips on selecting and crafting research papers, this page aims to equip students with the necessary tools to navigate through the complexities of the Trail of Tears and to understand its significance in shaping the nation’s past and present. Additionally, we introduce iResearchNet’s writing services, a reliable partner in providing top-quality custom research papers that meet students’ academic requirements and elevate their understanding of this critical historical event.

100 Trail of Tears Research Paper Topics

The Trail of Tears remains a poignant and significant episode in American history, exemplifying the dark side of westward expansion and the profound impact it had on Native American communities. To aid students in their research endeavors, we present a comprehensive list of Trail of Tears research paper topics, divided into 10 categories, each offering valuable insights into different aspects of this tragic event.

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The Indian Removal Act of 1830: Origins and implications
The political climate and public opinion surrounding Native American removal
Examination of treaties and agreements leading to forced removal
Comparison of Native American removal policies with other historical instances
The role of President Andrew Jackson in the Trail of Tears
The impact of the Trail of Tears on U.S. government and policies toward Native Americans
Native American resistance and activism during the removal
The Trail of Tears as a turning point in Native American-U.S. government relations
The Trail of Tears in the broader context of American expansionism
The ethical and moral implications of the Trail of Tears
Cherokee culture and society before the Trail of Tears
Principal Chiefs and tribal leadership during the removal
The impact of removal on Cherokee communities
Cherokee cultural preservation and adaptation after the relocation
The significance of Cherokee language and education during the Trail of Tears
The role of Cherokee women during the removal process
The representation of Cherokee people in contemporary literature and media
The legacy of Cherokee removal in modern-day Cherokee Nation
Cherokee-Native American relations after the Trail of Tears
The portrayal of the Cherokee removal in oral histories and folktales
The different routes taken by various tribes
Conditions and challenges faced during the journey
Accounts of individual experiences during the relocation
The impact of geography and environment on the Trail of Tears
The role of military escorts and their treatment of Native Americans
The significance of rivers and waterways in the forced removal
The role of missionaries and churches in aiding or opposing the removal
The Trail of Tears as a transnational event affecting multiple Native American nations
The use of primary sources, such as diaries and letters, to reconstruct the journey
The archeological evidence and artifacts related to the Trail of Tears routes
The experiences of Choctaw, Creek, Chickasaw, and Seminole tribes
Comparisons between the different tribes’ experiences
Resilience and adaptation of Native American communities after relocation
The impact of the Trail of Tears on intertribal relations and alliances
The legacy of the Trail of Tears in other Native American removals
The influence of non-removal tribes in advocating for those affected by the Trail of Tears
The role of Native American leaders and activists in response to removal policies
The cultural exchange and conflicts between different Native American tribes during the relocation
The representation of other Native American tribes in historical accounts of the Trail of Tears
The historical memory and commemoration of the Trail of Tears among non-Cherokee tribes
Attempts at legal challenges and resistance against removal
Life in the Indian Territory and efforts at rebuilding communities
Comparing pre- and post-removal living conditions and challenges
The impact of forced assimilation policies on Native American communities
Native American efforts at preserving cultural practices and traditions in the Indian Territory
The role of trade and economic activities in the Indian Territory
The role of education and mission schools in the Indian Territory
The influence of European settlers and traders in the Indian Territory
The significance of land ownership and distribution in the Indian Territory
The consequences of disease and illness on Native American populations in the Indian Territory
Effects on the economies of Native American tribes
Influence on the Southern economy and agricultural labor
Interactions and tensions between Native Americans and white settlers
The impact of the Trail of Tears on the Southern labor force
The role of African American slaves in the removal process and the Indian Territory
The economic and social dynamics between Native American tribes and African American slaves in the Indian Territory
The role of Native American labor and participation in the Southern economy after removal
The role of missionaries and churches in aiding Native American economic development in the Indian Territory
The impact of the Trail of Tears on Southern society and culture
The representation of economic aspects of the Trail of Tears in historical documents and literature
The psychological trauma experienced by Native American communities during the Trail of Tears
The impact of forced assimilation and acculturation on Native American identity
The preservation and revival of cultural practices and traditions after the removal
The role of storytelling and oral traditions in passing down the memory of the Trail of Tears
The representation of the Trail of Tears in Native American art and literature
The intergenerational effects of the Trail of Tears on Native American communities
The influence of the Trail of Tears on Native American religious beliefs and practices
The relationship between Native American spirituality and land in the context of the removal
The depiction of Native American cultures in the media and popular culture after the Trail of Tears
The exploration of cultural resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity
The response of U.S. government and political leaders to the Trail of Tears
The justification and debate over Native American removal policies
The impact of the Trail of Tears on the U.S. Supreme Court and legal interpretations of indigenous rights
The influence of the Trail of Tears on subsequent federal Indian policies
The role of advocacy groups and activists in challenging removal policies
The legacy of the Trail of Tears in modern Native American rights movements
The examination of treaties and agreements violated during the removal process
The international response and criticism of the U.S. government’s removal policies
The role of local and state governments in facilitating or opposing the removal
The exploration of reparations and recognition efforts for the descendants of those affected by the Trail of Tears
The involvement and experiences of African American slaves during the Trail of Tears
The relationship between Native American slaveholders and their African American slaves
The role of African American slaves in the Cherokee Nation and other tribes
The challenges faced by African American communities after the removal
The intersectionality of African American and Native American identities and experiences
The impact of the Trail of Tears on African American migration and settlement patterns
The legacy of the Trail of Tears in African American cultural memory and heritage
The portrayal of African American perspectives on the removal in historical accounts
The influence of the Trail of Tears on African American civil rights movements
The examination of race relations and interactions between African Americans and Native Americans in the Indian Territory
The ways in which the Trail of Tears is commemorated and memorialized today
The establishment and significance of Trail of Tears National Historic Trails and museums
The representation of the Trail of Tears in public history and education
The exploration of contested narratives and perspectives on the removal
The role of historical preservation and archeology in understanding the Trail of Tears
The significance of local and community efforts to remember the Trail of Tears
The impact of cultural heritage and tourism on the memory of the Trail of Tears
The comparison of American and indigenous perspectives on the Trail of Tears
The role of storytelling and oral history in preserving the memory of the Trail of Tears
The examination of ongoing efforts to reconcile and come to terms with the historical legacy of the Trail of Tears

This comprehensive list of Trail of Tears research paper topics provides students with a diverse array of avenues to explore the Trail of Tears, examining its historical context, cultural implications, and long-lasting effects on both Native American tribes and the nation as a whole. Each topic offers unique opportunities for critical analysis and contributes to a deeper understanding of this tragic and significant event in American history. Whether focusing on the experiences of specific tribes, the socio-economic impact, or the event’s portrayal in popular culture, students can uncover a wealth of insights and perspectives that shed light on the complex legacy of the Trail of Tears.

Trail of Tears: A Tragic Chapter in American History

The Trail of Tears stands as one of the most tragic and consequential events in American history, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s conscience. This 1000-word article will delve into the historical context, causes, and profound consequences of the Trail of Tears, shedding light on the forced removal of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands and the devastating impact it had on their cultures and livelihoods. Moreover, this article will highlight the significance of researching the Trail of Tears and the relevance it holds in contemporary times, as its legacy continues to shape the course of Native American communities and the United States as a whole.

Historical Context and Causes

To comprehend the significance of the Trail of Tears, it is crucial to understand its historical context. In the early 19th century, the United States underwent rapid expansion, driven by a fervent desire for territorial acquisition and economic growth. This ambition came at the expense of the indigenous peoples who inhabited the fertile lands of the Southeastern United States. As white settlers sought more land for agriculture and settlement, the federal government pursued a policy of forced removal of Native American tribes, leading to the tragic events that would become known as the Trail of Tears.

The Forced Removal

The Trail of Tears refers to the forced relocation of several Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole, from their ancestral homelands to lands west of the Mississippi River. The removal process was marked by deception, coercion, and violence. The tribes were subjected to treaties that were often obtained through unfair negotiations and signed under duress. These treaties stripped them of their land rights and forced them to leave behind their homes, communities, and cultural heritage.

Impact on Cultures and Livelihoods

The consequences of the Trail of Tears were devastating for the Native American tribes. The forced migration resulted in the loss of countless lives due to exposure, disease, and hunger. Families were torn apart, and entire communities were uprooted from their traditional ways of life. The removal had a profound impact on the tribes’ cultures, as they struggled to maintain their customs, languages, and religious practices in their new, unfamiliar surroundings. The forced assimilation into white American society further eroded their cultural identity and threatened the survival of their distinct ways of life.

Significance of Researching the Trail of Tears

Researching the Trail of Tears is not merely an academic pursuit but a moral imperative. Understanding the historical injustice and the human toll of this dark chapter in American history is essential for acknowledging the wrongs committed against Native American communities. It provides an opportunity to confront the legacy of dispossession, discrimination, and marginalization that continues to affect these communities today. By exploring this historical event, researchers can gain insights into the complexity of Native American experiences and the resilience of their cultures in the face of immense challenges.

Relevance in Contemporary Times

The legacy of the Trail of Tears reverberates in contemporary American society. It serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact of colonization, racism, and forced assimilation on indigenous peoples. The struggle for land rights, self-determination, and recognition of cultural heritage remains ongoing for Native American communities. Researching the Trail of Tears allows for a deeper understanding of the historical and ongoing injustices faced by these communities and the urgent need for reconciliation and social justice.

The Trail of Tears represents a dark and tragic chapter in American history, marked by the forced removal of Native American tribes and the immense suffering they endured. This article has provided insights into the historical context, causes, and consequences of the Trail of Tears, shedding light on its devastating impact on Native American cultures and livelihoods. Moreover, it has emphasized the importance of researching this pivotal event and its relevance in contemporary times, calling for greater awareness and acknowledgment of the historical injustices committed against Native American communities. By studying the Trail of Tears, we can strive for a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of American history, fostering a commitment to justice, reconciliation, and respect for the diverse cultures that shape our nation.

How to Choose Trail of Tears Research Paper Topics

Selecting a research paper topic on the Trail of Tears requires careful consideration and sensitivity to the historical significance and cultural implications of this tragic event. This section will provide valuable guidance on how to choose compelling and meaningful Trail of Tears research paper topics that delve into different aspects of the Trail of Tears. By following these 10 tips, students can navigate the complexities of this subject and contribute to a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in American history.

Define Your Area of Interest : Begin by identifying your area of interest within the Trail of Tears. Are you fascinated by the historical context, the impact on Native American cultures, the political dynamics involved, or the legacy in contemporary society? Narrowing down your focus will help you choose a topic that resonates with your passion and curiosity.
Explore Different Perspectives : The Trail of Tears was a multi-faceted event with far-reaching consequences. Consider exploring different perspectives, such as the experiences of specific tribes like the Cherokee or the Choctaw, the roles of government officials involved in the removal process, or the viewpoints of white settlers who supported or opposed the removal.
Examine Cultural and Social Implications : The forced removal of Native American tribes had profound cultural and social implications. Consider topics that delve into the impact on Native American languages, religions, traditions, and family structures. You could also explore the resilience and preservation of cultural identity among the displaced tribes.
Analyze Political and Legal Aspects : The Trail of Tears was shaped by political decisions and legal mechanisms. Investigate topics related to the treaties, legislation, and court cases that paved the way for the removal, as well as the political motivations behind these actions.
Study Human Rights and Ethics : The Trail of Tears raises ethical questions about human rights violations and the treatment of indigenous peoples. Explore topics that delve into the ethical considerations of the removal policy, the responsibility of the government, and the lessons it offers for modern-day human rights issues.
Consider Economic Factors : Economic interests played a significant role in the forced removal of Native American tribes. Trail of Tears research paper topics exploring the economic motivations behind the removal, the impact on the tribes’ economies, and the consequences for both Native Americans and white settlers can provide valuable insights.
Investigate Resistance and Resilience : Despite the hardships they faced, Native American tribes displayed remarkable resistance and resilience. Trail of Tears research paper topics that highlight the efforts of tribes to resist removal, such as legal challenges, petitions, and peaceful protests, as well as their efforts to rebuild their communities in new territories.
Examine Intercultural Encounters : The Trail of Tears brought Native American tribes into contact with other cultures, such as white settlers and African Americans. Investigate topics that explore the interactions, conflicts, and exchanges between these different groups during this tumultuous period.
Explore Art and Literature : Artists and writers have captured the emotions and experiences of the Trail of Tears through various mediums. Consider research paper topics that analyze the portrayal of the removal in art, literature, and media, and how these representations shape public memory and understanding.
Reflect on Modern Implications : The Trail of Tears has lasting implications in contemporary society. Trail of Tears research paper topics that examine the ongoing impact on Native American communities, the recognition of historical injustices, and the importance of reconciliation and healing can contribute to current discussions on social justice and cultural heritage.

Choosing a research paper topic on the Trail of Tears is a critical step in contributing to the understanding and commemoration of this significant event in American history. By exploring different angles, perspectives, and implications, students can shed light on the complex and poignant story of the forced removal of Native American tribes, providing valuable insights into the legacy and ongoing relevance of the Trail of Tears in the modern world.

How to Write a Trail of Tears Research Paper

Writing a research paper on the Trail of Tears requires careful planning, in-depth research, and a nuanced understanding of historical events and cultural complexities. In this section, we will guide you through the process of crafting a comprehensive and compelling research paper that explores the Trail of Tears and its significance in American history. Follow these 10 tips to ensure your paper effectively communicates the profound impact of this tragic chapter.

Thoroughly Research the Trail of Tears : Begin your journey by delving into a wide range of reputable sources, including academic books, scholarly articles, primary documents, and online databases. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical context, the various tribes involved, the removal process, and the aftermath of the Trail of Tears.
Develop a Clear Thesis Statement : Your thesis statement is the foundation of your research paper. It should succinctly state the main argument or focus of your paper. Ensure that your thesis statement reflects the specific aspect of the Trail of Tears you intend to explore and the significance of your findings.
Outline Your Paper’s Structure : Organize your research and ideas by creating a detailed outline for your paper. Include sections for the introduction, literature review, methodology (if applicable), main body paragraphs, analysis, and conclusion. Each section should flow logically and support your thesis.
Use Diverse Sources and Evidence : To present a well-rounded analysis, utilize a diverse range of sources and evidence. Incorporate historical records, firsthand accounts, official documents, statistical data, and scholarly interpretations. Using varied sources strengthens the credibility of your research.
Analyze Historical Context and Causes : Devote a section of your research paper to the historical context and causes of the Trail of Tears. Explain the political, economic, and social factors that led to the forced removal of Native American tribes. Provide a comprehensive overview to set the stage for your analysis.
Address the Impact on Native American Tribes : Explore the profound impact of the Trail of Tears on the affected Native American tribes. Discuss the devastating consequences of forced relocation, loss of ancestral lands, and disruptions to their cultures, languages, and traditions. Highlight the resilience and perseverance of the tribes amidst adversity.
Evaluate Government Policies and Decisions : Examine the government policies and decisions that led to the Trail of Tears. Analyze the role of President Andrew Jackson, the Indian Removal Act of 1830, and the enforcement of removal treaties. Assess the ethical implications and historical consequences of these policies.
Analyze Intercultural Encounters and Conflicts : Within your research paper, explore the interactions and conflicts that arose between Native American tribes, white settlers, and government officials during the removal process. Discuss the cultural clashes, misunderstandings, and power dynamics that shaped these encounters.
Discuss Historical Memory and Commemoration : Address how the Trail of Tears is remembered and commemorated in contemporary society. Explore how different groups interpret and remember this event, and discuss the efforts made to honor the memory of those who suffered during the forced removal.
Conclude with Reflection and Implications : In your conclusion, restate your thesis and summarize your main findings. Reflect on the lasting implications of the Trail of Tears in shaping American history and the ongoing challenges faced by Native American communities. Offer insights into the importance of understanding this historical event and its relevance in the present day.

By following these tips and conducting rigorous research, you can craft a thought-provoking and insightful research paper that honors the legacy of the Trail of Tears and contributes to a deeper understanding of this tragic chapter in American history.

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Much has been written about the Trail of Tears in the last century. Yet aside from facing incredibly harsh psychological hardship by their untimely banishment from American land, Native Americans also suffered through a challenging terrain to reach their destination. This historical essay , written by a top Ultius writer, illustrates the many challenges Native Americans faced to arrive in Oklahoma.

Geographic and Climatological Characteristics of the Trail of Tears

The Trail of Tears era of Indian removal in the Eastern and Central United States is a dark and infamous period of American history. Much has been written about the trials and tribulations faced by the tribes who were forced to leave their homes and cross hundreds of miles to Oklahoma. While considerable attention has been given to the personal stories of many individuals on both sides of the operation, attention must also be paid to the environmental issues faced when moving a population that large so far in an era of relatively little infrastructure. The climate and geography of the Trail of Tears only compounded the psychological hardship suffered by entire nations of Native Americans.

The frontier

After The War of 1812 had concluded nineteenth century America could finally look to domestic matters and the expansion of it territory. The American frontier was not very far from the original colonies. There was a lot of space and there were a lot of natural resources to be claimed and everyone was eager to get a piece. However, the frontier was not empty. Various Indian tribes were settled in the very places that the white frontiersmen wanted to go and were organized internally and among each other. These five civilized tribes occupied large parts of:

Mississippi
Florida
North Carolina
South Carolina

An important part of why they were able to be so organized and stable is that much of their territory was the best farmland in the region (Crewe 8). Both the climate and the terrain were well suited to agriculture and made it possible for the tribes to maintain year-round settlements.

Inability to integrate the indigenous tribes

When the United States government decided to take this natural bounty for its white citizens, the only two options were moving the massive populations or killing them all. Integration was apparently out of the question, according to President Jackson,

“’That those tribes can not exist surrounded by our settlements and in continual contact with our citizens is certain… Established in the midst of another and a superior race… they must necessarily yield… and ere long disappear’” (Crewe 15).

In light of that opinion, the tribes are probably lucky they were not just exterminated. So it became a matter of moving them all over hundreds of miles of rugged, untamed country through one brutal season after another.

The Road to Oklahoma

There was no easy road to Oklahoma in those days. The Appalachian Mountains and the Mississippi River served as major geographic barriers, but the simple names for those landmarks do not describe the challenge of traversing them which every tribe except the Seminoles, who were shipped across the Gulf of Mexico, had to do (Crewe 18). Though a variety of water routes also existed for the Choctaws, Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Muscogee tribes, most did not benefit from such a rapid or relatively easy journey.

The Nothern route

The most northern, and most common, route in particular suffered particular hardship. This route passed through several states, beginning in Tennessee, crossing Kentucky and Illinois, then over the Mississippi in Missouri and through Arkansas to finally arrive in Oklahoma (ToTA). This route, like the many others, faced the immediate challenge of working its way out of the Appalachian Mountains. While most of the tribes were familiar with the mountainous terrain as they had lived there for generations, it presented new challenges in the context of a mass exodus. The area was mountainous and heavily wooded, making it a challenge for pack animals and travelers of less-than-perfect health. While the Trail of Tears route did stick to established roads, it must be remembered that these are early 19th century roads in the wilderness and many would be little more than broken trails by today’s standards (ToTA). Once they broke free of the mountains, the topography became considerably gentler, though. This continuing trek across the unforgiving terrain was well documented throughout American literature and shaped the way in which Native Americans were presented as steadfast and noble people .

Continued hardships beyond the mountains

While there were plenty of challenges remaining on the majority of the route, mountains were no longer one of them after the trail left Tennessee. The geography of most of Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, and some parts of Arkansas is much flatter than that of Tennessee (ToTA). There were still considerably changes in elevation made throughout the course of the journey. The northern Trail began at around 800 feet above sea level, but promptly had to rise to over 2,000 before dipping back down as it entered Kentucky and Illinois, reaching as low as a 200 feet or lower (geology.com). Lowland travel was likely easier in terms of both weather and terrain, but it would not last. After crossing the Mississippi River, not an easy task when it’s thousands of people in the 1800s, the elevation started to rise again. Through the last leg of the journey the Trail rose back up to almost 2,000 feet through Missouri, Arkansas, and into Oklahoma (netstate.com). Any journey of thousands of miles would have been hard enough without having to climb up a hill into thinner air at the end, but that was the final step.

The Cherokee

When it came time to move the the Cherokee people , there was a considerable heat wave and serious drought. The other tribes who had gone before had faced similar difficulties, water and food shortages because of heat and drought and subsequent sickness and death, so the Cherokee won a reprieve and were allowed to wait until Fall (Byers 46).

The Climate and Weather: A Horror Story

The real hardships came in terms of climate. Any journey that lasts several months is going to have to face the weather of different seasons and in the time of the Trail of Tears, the weather was being particularly cruel. In this way the brutal summers of the both the South and the Midwest were avoided by at least one tribe. There was no way to avoid the climatological hardships, however, and the weather was unforgiving. By leaving in the fall, the Cherokee instead faced the challenges of winter:

“By November, winter weather had arrived, and the frozen rivers were impossible to cross. Food was scarce” (Byers 46).

Dry summers compounded with a harsh and relatively early winter made the journey of the Cherokee people one of the worst as all the difficulties of navigating broken or heavily forested terrain and crossing rivers became compounded by ice, snow and deadly cold. The ability to grow and forage for food was also compromised by these conditions. Both those who traveled in the summer and winter faced the challenge of feeding their pack animals and themselves because the areas they traveled through were uncultivated and poorly suited to supporting that kind of concentrated demand (Byers 46). If it had been only one group traveling, it may not have mattered, but the land was taxed to its limit by repeated trips and particularly harsh weather year round.

The Trail of Tears contained no shortage of horror stories and hardship for Native Americans . It needed no help from the very environment through which it passed to add to the hostility. Both terrain and climate combined upgraded the hardship to a nightmare. Though they followed roads, mountain, forest, and frontier roads were poor improvements on the naturally challenging terrain of the Trail, especially the early parts in the Appalachian Mountains. The continued trek accross the land beyond the mountains, unfortunately provided little comfort with constant changes in elevation and unforgiving weather through seasonal changes. The journey tooks its toll upon the people who suffered at its hands and the very existence of the Trail of Tears as an event in American history remains both a point of contention with surviving Native Americans and a blight on the reputation of this country.

Works Cited

Byers, Ann. The Trail of Tears: a primary source history of the forced relocation of the Cherokee Nation . New York: Rosen Pub., 2004. Print.

Crewe, Sabrina, and D. L. Birchfield. The Trail of Tears . Milwaukee: Gareth Stevens Pub., 2004. Print.

ToTA. "The Story | Trail of Tears National Historic Trail." The Trail of Tears Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2012. <http://www.nationaltota.org/the-story/>.

Geology.com. "Tennessee Physical Map and Tennessee Topographic Map." Geology.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2012. <http://geology.com/topographic-physical-map/tennessee.shtml>.

Netstate.com. "Arkansas Base and Elevation Maps." NetState. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2012. <http://www.netstate.com/states/geography/mapcom/ar_mapscom.htm>.

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Trail of Tears Essay Examples

The dark parts of america’s history: trail of tears research paper outline.

In a world that is commonly perceived as black and white, society tends to forget that not everything is split between good and evil, but that the world’s history is written in gray. Each and every country out of the 195 found in the world...

The Trail of Tears: a Tragic Chapter in American History

The Trail of Tears was a forced relocation of approximately 100,000 Native Americans from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to Indian Territory, which is now Oklahoma, in the mid-1800s. The Trail of Tears relocation, as you can see in the essay, was...

The Trail of Tears: One of the Darkest Time Periods in the American History

One of the darkest time periods in history goes down to the Trail of Tears, years 1838-1839. The time of when the Jews were being drawn out of their own country. This was universally one of the most tragic times as people were literally demanding...

The Trail of Tears: a Cruel Event in American History

In 1836, thousands of Native American Indians were being rounded up like savages and crowded into tiny stockades. Each tribe carried with them the story of their people as they were being ripped from their ancestral lands. Many feared the road ahead and knew their...

A Trail of Tears: a Crime Against Native Americans

I felt this was the beginning of the end. This wasn’t the country I was so eager and ready to fight for! I was willing to die for the sake of this country but after the sickening events that have just taken place before me,...

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About Trail of Tears

c. 1830 - 1840

Southeastern United States and Indian Territory

The Trail of Tears was the forced relocation during the 1830s of Indigenous peoples of the Southeast region of the United States (including the Cherokee, Creek, Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Seminole, among others) to the so-called Indian Territory west of the Mississippi River.

In 1830, Andrew JAckson signed the Indian Removal Act, which gave the federal government the power to exchange Native-held land in the cotton kingdom east of the Mississippi for land to the west, in the “Indian colonization zone” that the United States had acquired as part of the Louisiana Purchase. As a result Indian lands were held hostage by the states and the federal government, and Indians had to agree to removal to preserve their identity as tribes.

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