Courtesy of Library of Congress, “An act to provide for an exchange of land with the Indians residing in any of the state or territories, and for their removal west of the river Mississippi, May 28, 1830.” U.S. Congress, 28 May 1830
Description
This document, more informally known as the Indian Removal Act, fulfilled President Andrew Jackson’s belief that removing all American Indians west of the Mississippi River would make the country safer. Congressional approval opened the way for the next step: moving tribes, either willingly or by force, to what was known as "Indian Territory."
Full Transcript of the Indian Removal Act
Transcribed Excerpts from the Indian Removal Act
Source-Dependent Questions
- How does this Act of Congress illustrate the relationship between the executive and legislative branches of the federal government? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.
- What powers does this law give to the president?
- What promises are made to the American Indian tribes and nations in this document? Cite textual evidence.
Citation Information
“An act to provide for an exchange of land with the Indians residing in any of the state or territories, and for their removal west of the river Mississippi, May 28, 1830.” U.S. Congress, 28 May 1830. Courtesy of Library of Congress