Map of the Western Territory &c.

Early results from the Indian Removal Act of 1830.

This detailed map reflects a lamentable period in American history, the forcible relocation of native tribes to lands west of the Mississippi River. The legal grounds for such measures were offered by the Indian Removal Act of 1830, and by the end of the decade thousands of members of the ‘Five Civilized Tribes’ had been moved to the Great Plains. Many died along the appropriately named Trail of Tears, which ‘ended’ in the area captured within the image.

The Western Territory is shown extending from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains, bisected by the Santa Fe Road. Parcels assigned to numerous Native American tribes are outlined and labeled. The infant borders of the future Indian Territory and parts of Iowa are clearly distinguishable. Numerous U.S. Army forts are named, including Gibson, Leavenworth, Smith, Towson, and Armstrong. A significant military presence was necessary to deter regional violence between displaced tribes, the native inhabitants, and American settlers moving ever westward.

The map was compiled by Lieutenant Washington Hood, using a manuscript map drawn by Isaac McCoy. Originally published in 1834 to accompany Horace Everett’s House Report 474, Regulating the Indian Department, a copy of which is included.

Sources: Wheat Transmississippi 418; OCLC# 298988770.