Summary
As European-American settlers claimed more and more land in the 18th and early 19th centuries, they came into increasing conflict with Native Americans. In 1830, Congress debated the Indian Removal Act, a law to pressure Indian groups living in the eastern United States to give up their lands and move west. Supporters of the Indian Removal Act argued that it would provide room for settlers and enable Native Americans to preserve their culture and heritage, while opponents argued that it would force Native Americans from their ancestral homelands and violate long-standing treaties. Was Indian removal necessary to protect Native Americans and end conflict, or merely an excuse to take Indians' land and give it to settlers?
This eBook examines the Indian Removal Act and delves into the pro and con arguments that surrounded the law. It includes a timeline, primary sources, a bibliography, and a "Learn More About" chapter with more information on the topic.