The Price of Removal

Posted by Jeffrey R Gudzune Sep 13, 2009

Since the inception of its rebellion against the British crown, the American government has sought to absorb native territory for use in its own expansionists desires. The Indian Removal Act touched off a devastating series of events the would lead to one of the darkest moments in American history--the Trail of Tears. On paper, the act promised an even exchange of land, sufficient funds for relocation, and protection of native land claims in the new western territory. In reality, the Indian Removal Act opened the door for a massive land grab that would threaten to plunge the entire southeast into open war. Next week, we will explore the first of a series of treaties that would take both sides towards the end.