One of the most tragic and despicable events in American history is referred to as The Trail of Tears. In time, the United States and its society, for the most part, will reach a greater appreciation of diversity and other cultures. While the current climate of the United States is not one rich in diversity, it should not disregard that natural rights pertain to all individuals. Natural or inalienable rights belong to all people who are children of God; this would include the Cherokees and other tribes. It would also include the slaves. Inalienable rights recognize that everyone has the right to life and to liberty. Furthermore, everyone also has the right to his or her property or land. The Cherokee tribe was on the land first. Likely, a mutual aid pact would be worked out though.
The Cherokee and other Native Americans have also proven their value to the European settlers time and time again. President Andrew Jackson’s life was saved by the Cherokee. The original settlers likely would have died at Jamestown if not for the assistance of the Native American tribes. The Native American tribes offer a tremendous knowledge of the land and its resources. They have shown that they are willing to work with the white settlers. They do not want to live in anger and war. Rather, they are willing to live in peace, provided they can maintain some of their lands (Ross, 1836).
Some of the greatest legislators and leaders of the United States are also against the removal of the Cherokee people. Senator Daniel Webster, along with Senator Henry Clay, have argued against this action. All of the settlers do not believe that the Cherokee need to be removed. They should be heard. Their ideas should be considered. In this way, a mutual pact may be reached that will prevent a possible atrocity (The Cherokee Nation, 2015).
- Ross, J. (1836). Letter from John Ross defending the Cherokee’s rights to their land. Retrieved from: http://www.teachushistory.org/indian-removal/resources/letter-ross-defending-cherokees-right-their-land
- The Cherokee Nation. (2015). A brief history of the Trail of Tears. Retrieved from: http://www.cherokee.org/AboutTheNation/History/TrailofTears/ABriefHistoryoftheTrail_GoBack_GoBackofTears.aspx