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The War of 1812
After this war, tensions between the Americans and Native Americans started to increase. -
Indian Removal Act
The Indian Removal Act was signed by President Andrew Jackson in 1830. This Act declared that the Native Americans would have to leave their lands and find new homes. The government was gaining control of more Indian land through this act. -
Potawatomi Forced Removal
Throughout September to November of 1838, the Potawatomi were forced to leave their homes. This is when they began their long journey. -
American Burn Potawatomi Homes
After the U.S. government had removed the Potawatomi, they burned their tribes. They did this so the Indian tribes would have no reason to come back. In doing this, they destroyed all of the Indian culture that made that land unique. -
Potawatomi Deaths
Many of the Potawatomi died from disease, starvation, and exposure on this journey. -
'Trail of Death'
After the lives of many Potawatomi are lost, this trip becomes known as the Trail of Death. This is what the Natives refer to the removal as. Since a large number of their tribe were lost to various reasons, the Potawatomi created a name that described the events well. -
Potawatomi Settle in Oklahoma and Kansas
After the long trip of many deaths, the Potawatomi finally find places to settle in Indian territory. This land was put away by the government, specifically for the Native Americans. The Potawatomi create homes throughout Kansas and Oklahoma. -
The Potawatomi Rebuild
After they settle in their new land, the Potawatomi have to rebuild their tribe and culture. They have to adjust in the new land and learn how to hunt and gather. The climate was different and they had to find new resources for food, buildings, and clothing. In their new homes, they have to rebuild and learn how to preserve their culture.
