News Release

Cherokee Nation V. Georgia 1828-1838

Date: September 20, 2024
Contact: Kim Coons, 706-866-9241, ext. 139

Fort Oglethorpe, GA: On Saturday, October 5, at 10 am, Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park will present a special 1-hour, ranger-led, program breaking down the two Supreme Court cases brought upon the state of Georgia by the Cherokee Nation. This program will take place at the John Ross House, located at 200 East Lake Ave, Rossville, GA, 30741.

In 1828, Georgia started extending its jurisdiction over Cherokee Territory. The Cherokee appealed to the executive branch of the federal government to try and stop Georgia from forcibly taking homes, lands, and mines. President Andrew Jackson responded to their pleas with the Indian Removal Act, showing that he supported Georgia's actions. Therefore, the Cherokee decided to fight their case in the highest court of the land, the Supreme Court. The Cherokee would bring two cases before the court, arguing against the Trail of Tears. These cases are riddled with legal jargon and language used during the period, which makes it difficult to understand. This program’s goal is to provide easily understandable and accessible information, while discussing these cases’ impacts on American History.

Please remember to dress appropriately for the weather.

For more information about programs at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, contact the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center at 706-866-9241, the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center at 4230821-7786, or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/chch.