Motivation for Jackson’s Indian Removal Policy
Andrew Jackson’s Indian Removal Policy illustrates his history as an aggressive Indian fighter, his commitment to maintaining state rights, and the influence of the popular opinion of the frontier states whom he depended on in the 1828 election. Jackson’s years as a militia leader fighting Indians and his determined and aggressive personality represent the harsh nature of the Indian Removal Policy. Jackson’s reputation as the “hero of the common man” outlines his belief in giving power to the individual states. Jackson’s presidential election depended on the support of the frontier states, especially Georgia; thus, land compromises with the frontiersmen were made by Jackson in exchange for votes. Although these motivations are not based on humanitarian impulses, Jackson did try to make the process of removal as harmless and easy as possible.
The inhumane nature of the Indian Removal Policy can in part be attributed to Jackson’s intense motivation to remove any barriers in the way of American development and also to his overall dislike of the Indians, acting as this barrier. This disrespect for the Indians is exemplified by his constant attacks and disregard for Indian policies. While traveling through Choctaw lands with his slaves, Jackson refused to provide documentation for his slaves, a federal law enforced by Indian agent Silas Dinsmore. Also, in 1813 Jackson, “whose reputation had been built as an Indian fighter,” (Norton 267) and his militia massacred the village of Talluhatchee, in 1814 slaughtered the Creeks, and soon after led a campaign in Florida against the Seminoles (Marszalek 223-4). Jackson “saw evil conspiracy and corruption in anything or anyone who stood in his way,” and it was this characteristic of his personality that motivated this inhumane policy (Marszalek 225).
Jackson’s dedication to increase the power of state governments while also keeping peace between state and national...