Topics Related to Native American History

The Treaty of New Echota and the Trail of Tears

On December 29, 1835, U.S. government officials and about 500 Cherokee Indians claiming to represent their 16,000-member tribe, met at New Echota, Georgia, and signed a treaty. The agreement led to the forced removal of Cherokees from their southeastern homelands to Indian Territory west of the Mississippi River.

Body Politic of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Created

On December 9, 1868, at a Grand Council held at Cheowa (modern day Robbinsville), the body politic of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) was created.

Historic Origins of the Tsali Legend and “Unto These Hills”

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Cherokee Warrior Junaluska Died

On November 20, 1858, distinguished Cherokee warrior Junaluska died. Little is known of his early life.

Baker Roll, a Census of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Created

On June 4, 1924, the United States Congress passed an act aimed at terminating the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians.  Indian Agent Fred A. Baker was tasked with preparing an official roll of all members of the Eastern Band.

Tragic End to Native-Newcomer Encounter

On June 1, 1586, Algonquian chief Pemisapan was decapitated by Edward Nugent, a member of Ralph Lane’s Roanoke Island colony.

Military Order Beginning the Trail of Tears

On May 10, 1838, General Winfield Scott issued a proclamation to eastern Cherokees, by order of President Martin Van Buren, to evacuate their ancestral homeland.

Wanchese and Manteo Conclude Visit to London, 1585

On April 19, 1585, Algonquian Indians Wanchese and Manteo set sail aboard the English vessel The Tyger to return to the Roanoke Island region.

The Nikwasi Treaty

On April 3, 1730, Scotsman Sir Alexander Cuming was present at a meeting of Cherokee leaders at the council house at Nikwasi.

Croatan Normal School, Forerunner of UNC-Pembroke

On March 7, 1887, the General Assembly passed legislation allowing for the construction of a secondary school for the Robeson County Indians then called the Croatan and now known as the Lumbee.