The Cherokee Nation of Indians. (1887 N 05 / 1883-1884 (pages 121-378))

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

46493

Title

The Cherokee Nation of Indians. (1887 N 05 / 1883-1884 (pages 121-378))

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This authoritative historical monograph details the Cherokee Nation's official relations with colonial and federal governments from early contact through Reconstruction. It chronicles land cessions, treaty negotiations, forced removal, legal battles, and internal political divisions, offering a comprehensive view of Indigenous diplomacy and resilience.

Summary up to 500 words

Charles C. Royce's exhaustive account chronicles the Cherokee Nation's tumultuous history from early colonial contact through the late nineteenth century, detailing their relentless struggle to maintain sovereignty against external pressures. The narrative begins with initial agreements in the 1720s and progresses through a series of treaties that systematically reduced Cherokee territory. A central theme is the government's policy of removal, culminating in the tragic Trail of Tears during the 1830s. Royce meticulously documents the legal battles fought by the Cherokees, including landmark Supreme Court decisions like *Worcester v. Georgia*, which affirmed tribal rights but were ultimately overridden by political will. The text explores the complex internal politics of the Nation, highlighting the adoption of a written constitution and the controversial acceptance of slavery by some members. Deep factional splits emerged between the 'Old Settlers' in Indian Territory and those remaining east of the Mississippi, a division exacerbated during the Civil War when Cherokees faced divided loyalties, political violence, and property confiscation. The work concludes with post-war treaties that redefined boundaries and citizenship requirements while providing financial compensation for lost lands. Royce also addresses the era following the war, focusing on the appraisal of confiscated Cherokee property and the sale of 'neutral lands' to other tribes like the Poncas, Nez Percés, and Otoes. He details the contentious debates over land valuation, noting the Cherokees' objections to low appraisals that undervalued their territory compared to adjacent white settlements. Furthermore, the narrative covers disputes regarding railroad rights-of-way through Indian Territory and the precise resurveying of boundaries with Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas. Through these detailed records of treaties, maps, and official reports, Royce provides a comprehensive record of the Cherokee Nation's resilience and identity amidst relentless displacement and legal challenges.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• History
• Politics