Study Notes on Native American Tribes and Andrew Jackson's Policies

  • Five Civilized Tribes

    • Refers to five Native American tribes considered civilized by Eurocentric standards:

      • Chickasaw

      • Choctaw

      • Creek

      • Seminole

      • Cherokee

    • These tribes were acknowledged for adopting some European customs, but this classification overlooked their rich cultural traditions, governance systems, and diverse languages.

  • Eurocentric Standards of Civilization

    • The term "civilized" is contested:

      • Used in air quotes to denote skepticism regarding the Eurocentric view of civilization.

      • Native Americans had established complex societies with their own development long before the arrival of European settlers.

      • These civilizations included intricate social structures, political organizations, and cultural practices that were legitimate by their own standards.

      • Criteria for being considered civilized included:

      • Development of written languages that conveyed rich oral histories and cultural narratives.

      • Agricultural practices, including advanced techniques like crop rotation and irrigation, which supported large populations.

      • Trade networks that spanned across North America, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices.

      • Practices viewed through a Eurocentric lens, such as the existence of slavery, which was common in various societies globally.

Andrew Jackson and Native American Removal

  • Policy Motivation

    • Andrew Jackson's push for the removal of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands was framed as necessary for:

      • Expanding property for European Americans eager for land ownership and agricultural expansion.

      • Strengthening U.S. borders and economy through increased settlement and resource extraction.

      • Preventing future conflicts between Native Americans and settlers, driven by a belief in Manifest Destiny, the notion that American expansion was preordained.

  • Controversy and Opposition

    • Davy Crockett, a senator, raised significant moral and legal objections:

      • He argued that tribes were sovereign nations, deserving of respect and autonomy, and that treaties should govern removal, not force.

      • He emphasized the importance of conscience over political party loyalty, advocating for humane treatment of Native Americans.

      • Congress's response to Jackson's policy was split:

      • The proposal narrowly passed both the Senate and House, reflecting deep national divisions regarding Native American rights.

The Trail of Tears

  • Forced Relocation

    • The term "Trail of Tears" refers to the forced removal of Native Americans, specifically between 1831 and 1838, consisting of multiple relocations of various tribes.

    • Approximately 100,000 Native Americans were relocated during this period, a significant demographic crisis.

    • Conditions were dire:

      • About 15,000 individuals died during the relocation due to harsh weather, disease, and inadequate supplies, exacerbated by the lack of proper planning and support from the government.

  • Geographical Impact

    • Native American tribes were relocated primarily to Oklahoma, designated as Indian Territory:

      • Chickasaw and Choctaw moved to southern Oklahoma, where they faced challenges in adapting to a new environment.

      • Creek, Seminole, and Cherokee relocated to northern Oklahoma, often encountering hostility from other settlers and tribes, leading to further conflict.

Legal Challenges

  • Supreme Court Cases

    • Native Americans sought legal recourse through the courts:

      • Prominent cases included Cherokee Nation vs. Georgia and Worcester vs. Georgia, which challenged the legality of their removal.

      • Chief Justice John Marshall ruled that the removal was unconstitutional, stating that Native Americans were not U.S. citizens and asserting that the federal government had no authority over tribal nations.

      • Andrew Jackson's response to the ruling showcased the limits of the checks and balances system:

      • He questioned the enforcement of the court's decision, arguing it showed potential dangers in a democracy where the executive could defy judicial authority.

Implications

  • Historical Significance

    • Understanding the depth of the impact on Native American communities and the ethical implications of the removal policy is crucial.

      • The Trail of Tears remains a poignant reminder of the consequences of governmental policies on indigenous populations, symbolizing the struggle against oppression and injustice.

      • It serves as a pivotal event in American history, prompting ongoing discussions about sovereignty, rights, and reconciliation with Native American communities.