1. Explain Supreme Court case Worcester v. Georgia, what was the case about?
2. What was the outcome of their decision?
3. How did Jackson respond to the decision?
4. What was the effect on the Native Americans?
1. The case Worcester v. Georgia was a landmark Supreme Court case in 1832 that dealt with the issue of Native American sovereignty. The case revolved around Samuel Worcester, a missionary and supporter of the Cherokee Nation, who was arrested for living in Cherokee territory without a state permit as required by Georgia law. Worcester challenged the constitutionality of that law, arguing that it violated the Cherokee Nation's rights.
2. The outcome of the Supreme Court's decision in Worcester v. Georgia was a significant victory for Native American sovereignty. Chief Justice John Marshall, writing for the majority, ruled that the state of Georgia had no authority over Cherokee lands and that the Cherokee Nation had the right to self-governance and control over their territory.
3. President Andrew Jackson, who was known for his aggressive policies towards Native Americans, did not respond favorably to the Supreme Court's decision in Worcester v. Georgia. Despite the court's ruling, Jackson famously retorted, "John Marshall has made his decision; now let him enforce it." This statement reflected Jackson's refusal to enforce or acknowledge the Court's decision, asserting his belief in the supremacy of executive power over judicial orders.
4. The effect on the Native Americans was ultimately negative. Despite the Supreme Court ruling in their favor, Georgia and President Jackson disregarded the decision, leading to the forced removal of the Cherokee people from their ancestral lands to the Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) in what became known as the Trail of Tears. Many Native Americans suffered greatly during this forced relocation, with thousands dying due to harsh conditions and exposure. The case highlighted the continued disregard for Native American rights and the expansionist policies of the United States government during that time period.