In the hope of avoiding removal from their much coveted homelands in the Southeast, the Cherokees began to adopt broad aspects of Anglo-American culture in the early nineteenth century. Despite their general acquiescence to government policies and their efforts to fulfill the expectations of white philanthropists, the Cherokees ultimately fared worse than less acculturated native peoples in similar circumstances. In 1838 Cherokees in Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina were forced at gunpoint to leave their homes, farms, schools, and churches. Their demoralizing journey to a reservation in the Oklahoma Territory-during which thousands died or were killed-came to be known as the Trail of Tears.

The first interdisciplinary survey of Cherokee removal, this volume brings together essays by eight prominent scholars (including three of Cherokee descent) in the fields of history, geography, sociology, and law. They address such topics as Cherokee politics, class structure, and land-use patterns before the removal; Andrew Jackson's Indian policies; Cherokee population losses; the effects of removal on the few Cherokees allowed to remain in North Carolina; and the Cherokees' immediate and long-term problems following their relocation.

The most current general work on the causes and effects of the Cherokee removal, this volume is certain to stimulate the continuing debate on United States Indian policy and to encourage further study.

About the Author

WILLIAM L. ANDERSON is a professor of history at Western Carolina University. He is coauthor of A Guide to Cherokee Documents in Foreign Archives and Southern Treasures.

Reviews

Clearly and concisely written, the essays are uniformly well researched and documented, thought-provoking, and persuasive. A significant contribution to the field.

Book Information
ISBN 9780820314822
Author William L. Anderson
Format Paperback
Page Count 176
Imprint University of Georgia Press
Publisher University of Georgia Press
Weight(grams) 295g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 14mm