Shadow of the Owl is a mixed media by John Guthrie which was uploaded on January 22nd, 2015.
Shadow of the Owl
The Cherokee Trail of Tears is a significant event in American history that took place in the 1830s. It refers to the forced removal of the Cherokee... more
by John Guthrie
Title
Shadow of the Owl
Artist
John Guthrie
Medium
Mixed Media - Watercolor
Description
The Cherokee Trail of Tears is a significant event in American history that took place in the 1830s. It refers to the forced removal of the Cherokee Nation from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to the designated Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) under the Indian Removal Act of 1830. This journey resulted in immense suffering, loss of life, and the disruption of a rich and vibrant culture.
The Cherokee people had long inhabited the region known as the Cherokee Nation before the arrival of European settlers. They developed a sophisticated society with a written language, a constitutional government, and a strong agricultural economy. However, as white settlers encroached upon their lands, pressure mounted for their removal. Despite legal battles and efforts by some Cherokee leaders to resist, the U.S. government, led by President Andrew Jackson, forcibly relocated the Cherokee Nation.
The Trail of Tears began in 1838, when approximately 16,000 Cherokee people were rounded up and forced to march westward. The journey was arduous, covering over 1,000 miles on foot, with inadequate provisions and harsh weather conditions. Many Cherokee people, particularly the elderly, children, and infirm, succumbed to disease, hunger, and exposure along the way. It is estimated that around 4,000 Cherokee died during the journey, earning the name "Trail of Tears."
The significance of the Trail of Tears extends beyond the immense human suffering endured by the Cherokee people. It represents a dark chapter in U.S. history, highlighting the devastating consequences of the government's policies towards Native American tribes. The forced removal of the Cherokee and other tribes from their ancestral lands resulted in the loss of culture, heritage, and a deep connection to the land.
Despite the hardships endured during the Trail of Tears, the Cherokee people have shown remarkable resilience in preserving their cultural heritage. Today, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina and the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma continue to maintain their traditions, language, and customs. They actively work towards preserving their history and ensuring the continued recognition of their contributions to American society.
The Trail of Tears serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging the injustices committed against Native American tribes and working towards reconciliation. Efforts are being made to promote understanding, respect, and the protection of Native American rights. The lessons learned from the Trail of Tears and the collective experiences of Native American communities can help shape a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
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January 22nd, 2015
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