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February 1838
15,665 people of the Cherokee Nation memorialize congress protesting the Treaty of New Echola. -
March 1838
Outraged American citizens throughout the country memorialize congress on behalf of the Cherokee. -
April 1838
Congress tables memorials protesting Cherokee removal. Federal troops ordered to prepare for roundup. -
May 1838
Cherokee roundup begins May 23, 1838. Tsali, American Indian chief escapes roundup and returns to North Carolina. -
June 1838
First group of Cherokees driven west under Federal guard. Further removal aborted because of drought. -
July 1838
Over 13,000 Cherokees imprisoned in military stockades awaiting break in drought. Approximately 1500 American Indians die in confinement. -
August 1838
Cherokee chiefs meet in council, reaffirming the sovereignty of the Cherokee Nation. John Ross becomes superintendent of the removal. -
September 1838
Cherokee prepare to embark on forced excursion to Indian Territory in Oklahoma. Ross wins additional funds for food and clothing. -
October 1838
For more Cherokee American Indians, The " Trail of Tears" begins. -
November 1838
Thirteen groups of Cherokees cross Tennessee, Kentucky and Illinois. First groups reach the Mississippi River, where their crossing is held up as the river is covered in ice. -
Period: to
The Trail of Tears
