The Relocation of the American Indian

This sobering volume examines a darker and often overlooked side of American history: the genocide and oppression of Native Americans. Opening with a time line of important events and utilizing primary source excerpts, anecdotes, maps, and period illustrations and photograph, students will learn about the brutal and often unfair ways that the US government and settlers treated the Native Americans. A grim example is the removal of the Choctaws, as witnessed by Frenchman Alexis de Tocqueville: “I saw them embark to pass the mighty river, and never will that solemn spectacle fade from my remembrance.” Along with primary excerpts within the main body, text boxes highlight quotes from prominent figures such as Tecumseh and Major Ridge. Also included are relevant tie-ins to fairly recent Native activism and acknowledgement of the government work that has been—and still needs to be—done to make amends. Back matter contains a list of important historical players, source notes, books Web sites for further research, and an index.