Activities to Teach Students About Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears
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The Indian Removal Act of 1830 was a policy implemented by the United States Government in the 19th century that forced Native American tribes living in the southeastern United States to move westward–a journey that would become known as the Trail of Tears. The act led to the displacement and death of thousands of Native Americans, marking one of the darkest moments in American history. Teaching students about this chapter of history is essential to understanding the complexity of America’s relationship with Native American tribes. Here are some activities to teach students about Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears.
1. Reading Articles or Primary Documents
It’s crucial to start with historical documents and accounts of the Trail of Tears. Students will learn about the different opinions and attitudes of the people involved in the Indian Removal Act. For instance, they can read Andrew Jackson’s State of the Union Address from 1830, the Treaty of New Echota, and accounts of the horrors children and women faced during the trail.
2. Visit a Museum or Historic Site
There are several museums and historic sites across the United States dedicated to preserving and educating visitors about the Indian Removal Act and the Trail of Tears. Take a field trip to a museum or site in your area.
3. Videos and Documentaries
Watching documentaries and movies about Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears can help students connect emotionally to what happened. An example is the documentary film produced by PBS titled We Shall Remain: Trail of Tears or watching a movie like the 2020 production, “The Trial of the Chicago 7.”
4. Poetry
Reading poems about Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears can inspire a different dimension of understanding for students. “The Trail of Tears” by Jim Barnes, is one example. After reading the poem, ask students to interpret the events in their terms.
5. Debates and Class Discussion
To understand the issue more deeply, conduct debates or initiate discussions about whether and why the Indian Removal Act was necessary. Encourage them to see the situation from various perspectives, considering the pros and cons of the Act.
In conclusion, teaching about Indian removal and the Trail of Tears is crucial to understanding the implications of such a policy on Native American tribes and the country as a whole. Engaging in various activities in the classroom can help students connect with this history emotionally and intellectually. By exploring different perspectives and coming to terms with the past, we can work towards reconciliation and healing for those who suffered during those dark times.