Cherokee Nation

Between 1838 and 1839, the U.S. Army removed the majority of the Cherokee from their homelands in the Southeast. Before the federal government finalized arrangements for their journey west to Indian Territory, they were forced to endure unprotected, overcrowded, and unsanitary conditions in internment camps, where they were kept under strong guard and suffered severe deprivation. Thousands died during this opening chapter of the Trail of Tears, and hardships and suffering continued during removal as many more died along the trail to Indian Territory.

Fort Smith, Arkansas · United States