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Aug 3, 1492
Christopher Columbus Came To America
Christopher Columbus first discovered America in 1492. This was when he first came in contact with the Native Americans. -
First Reservation
The United States created the first reservation for the Native people. The initial idea was that this separation would preserve sovereignty. Later, the military was established and soon removal became apart of US policy. (Date only reflects the year this was initiated not the specific date) -
1st US Census
The first US Census was conducted. This census included slaves and free African-Americans, but Native Americans were not included in this. -
Official Notice To Move West
The U.S. government gave the Native Americans their first official notice to move west of the Mississippi River. -
Indian Removal Act
The Indian Removal Act was passed by President Andrew Jackson. This law gave the President permission to give unsettled land west of the Mississippi River to the Indians in exchange for their land within the current states borders. -
Trail of Tears
President Jackson sent troops to forcibly remove the Cherokee who had refused to move westward out of Georgia. American Soldiers came and put many of them into camps and imprisonment while the remainder began an 800 mile forced march to Oklahoma. 4,000 Cherokee died during this removal -
The Indian Health Service
The IHS provides services and works to improve the health of the Native American population. This service now provides to 1.5 million Native Americans throughout 35 states. (This date only reflects the year this was created not the specific date) -
The Indian Child Welfare Act
ICWA's mission is repair the human rights violations that have been committed against Native Americans. This policy promotes stability and security for Native families. Through this policy tribal communities have the power to regulate their own child welfare cases. (The date only reflects the year that this act was created not the specific day)