Trail of Tears By 1784094 Jan 1, 1540 Hernando De Soto travels the Cherokee territory. Feb 2, 1730 Cherokee leaders visit England. Mar 3, 1756 Cherokee fight in the French and India war. Apr 4, 1780 Cherokees sign more treaties land to United Stated. May 5, 1830 The India removal act is passed. Jun 6, 1838 The Trail of Tears started because Cherokees are forced off their land to Indian Territory. Jul 7, 1839 A new capital is establishe by the Cherokee Nation in what is now known as Oklahoma. Aug 8, 1893 White settlers take over Cherokee Outlet. Sep 9, 1917 W.C. Rogers dies. He was the last Cherokee chief. Oct 10, 1948 Chief J.B. Milam calls Cherokee convention. Nov 11, 1957 First national holiday for Cherokees. Dec 12, 1963 Cherokee National historical society founded. Jan 13, 1967 Cherokee Foundation Formed. Feb 14, 1970 Cherokee National gets ownership of beds and banks. Mar 15, 1976 Cherokee voters accept new constitution. May 16, 1991 Wilma Man killer becomes principal chief again to serve her second term. May 17, 1995 Joe Byrd and Garland Eagle elected principal chief.