With Andrew Jackson's encouragement, Georgia openly defied the Supreme Court, who had found the relocation of the Cherokee unconstitutional after the Cherokee had sued Georgia, and began to force the Cherokee off of their land anyeays.
Previous federal policy had recognized the Cherokee as a seperate nation with its own laws.
Previous federal policy had recognized the Cherokee as a seperate nation with its own laws.
Previous federal policy had recognized the Cherokee as a seperate nation with its own laws.
Previous federal policy had recognized the Cherokee as a seperate nation with its own laws.
The federal government did not enforce the court's decision.
John Ridge originally opposed the removal of the Cherokee, on the false belief that the Federal Government would honor their previous treaties with the Cherokee. After meeting with President Andrew Jackson, and being informed that the Federal Government (despite the court ruling) would not honor the previous treaty, or protect the Cherokee - Ridge switched sides and advocated the removal. It should be noted that John Ridge was killed (stabbed 48 times, and then trampled) for signing the Treaty of New Echota, under Indian law (Law of the Snake) he had committed Treason.
General Winfield Scott led federal troops that forced the Cherokee west on the Trail of Tears.
General Winfield Scott led federal troops that forced the Cherokee west on the Trail of Tears.
General Winfield Scott led federal troops that forced the Cherokee west on the Trail of Tears.
General Winfield Scott led federal troops that forced the Cherokee west on the Trail of Tears.
General Winfield Scott led federal troops that forced the Cherokee west on the Trail of Tears.
The federal government and Winfield Scott.