Which president was associated with the Indian Removal Act and the Trail of Tears?

The Indian Removal Act and the associated forced relocation of Native American tribes, known as the Trail of Tears, are closely tied to Andrew Jackson's presidency. In 1830, Jackson supported the Indian Removal Act, which aimed to move Native American tribes living east of the Mississippi River to designated lands in the west. This policy was grounded in the belief that the expansion of the United States and the cultivation of land by white settlers were paramount, often disregarding the rights and sovereignty of Native Americans.

The implementation of this policy led to the forced migration of thousands of Native Americans, most notably the Cherokee, whose journey westward was marked by great suffering, illness, and death, culminating in the term "Trail of Tears." Jackson's strong advocacy for this policy reflects his commitment to westward expansion and a deep-seated belief in American exceptionalism, which often ran counter to the welfare of indigenous populations. Understanding Jackson’s role provides a critical insight into the complexities of U.S. history regarding Native American relations in the 19th century.