Question

Why did the Cherokee make treaties and assimilate with white culture in Georgia?

a) To avoid an outbreak of war similar to the Creeks'
b) Because they were forced to by the US government
c) In an effort to protect their lands from settlement
d) Due to a drought that led to famine and disease.

Answer 1

The Cherokee made treaties and assimilated with white culture in Georgia to avoid war, protect their lands, and gain recognition from the US government. This ultimately did not prevent their forced removal and relocation to Indian Territory.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Cherokee made treaties and assimilated with white culture in Georgia for several reasons. One reason is to avoid an outbreak of war similar to the Creeks'. By adopting American governmental practices and lifestyles, the Cherokee hoped to secure their lands and gain recognition from the US government.

Another reason is the immense pressure and force imposed by the US government and the state of Georgia. Georgia passed laws targeting the Cherokee, closed down their institutions, and even created a state land lottery to distribute Cherokee lands to white settlers. Ultimately, the Cherokee's efforts to assimilate and make treaties were not enough to protect their lands, and they were eventually forcibly relocated to Indian Territory in present-day Oklahoma, resulting in the tragedy known as the Trail of Tears.