On this day in history–6 December 1830–the National Archives reports:
In the early 1800s, American demand for Indian nations’ land increased, and momentum grew to force American Indians further west. The first major step to relocate American Indians came when Congress passed, and President Andrew Jackson signed, the Indian Removal Act of May 28, 1830.
The Act authorized the President to negotiate removal treaties with Indian tribes living east of the Mississippi River, primarily in the states of Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, and others. The goal was to remove all American Indians living in existing states and territories and send them to unsettled land in the west.
In his message on December 6, 1830, President Jackson informed Congress on the progress of the removal, stating, “It gives me pleasure to announce to Congress that the benevolent policy of the Government, steadily pursued for nearly thirty years, in relation to the removal of the Indians beyond the white settlements is approaching to a happy consummation.”
This set the stage for the Trail of Tears.
Today’s playlist included the following:
Trail of Tears Song, We Will Go Together – Joy Harjo
For Those Who Cried (Cherokee Removal) – Jack Gladstone
Cherokee Morning Song – Robbie Robertson & The Red Road Ensemble
Indian Reservation – Buddy Red Bow
Cherokee Tears – Jobel Star
Cherokee Trail of Tears -Native American Indians
We Are Still Here – Spirit Nation
Mourning Song for a Brother – Maggie Harry and Jenny Jack
Along the Graybeard Trail 