Side by side with the westward drift of white Americans in the 1830's was the forced migration of the Five Civilized Tribes from Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. Both groups were deployed against the tribes of the prairies, both breaking the soil of the undeveloped hinterland. Both were striving in the years before the Civil War to found schools, churches, and towns, as well as to preserve orderly development through government and laws. In this book Grant Foreman brings to light the singular effect the westward movement of Indians had in the cultivation and settlement of the Trans-Mississippi region. It shows the Indian genius at its best and conveys the importance of the Cherokees, Chickasaws, Choctaws, Creeks, and Seminoles to the nascent culture of the plains. Their achievements between 1830 and 1860 were of vast importance in the making of America.

Examines the problems of the Indian tribes in trying to maintain a self-derived culture, while adapting to the alien influences of the white man's society during the nineteenth century

Fort Gibson stands as a seminal collection that weaves together a tapestry of narratives, historical documents, and scholarly analyses to illuminate the pivotal role of Fort Gibson in American Westward expansion. Rooted in a diverse range of literary styles, from the meticulous chronicling of daily life to in-depth socio-political analysis, this anthology invites readers into a multifaceted exploration of a landmark that served as a fulcrum for various cultural, military, and economic developments. The editors have curated a selection of works that not only showcases the varied functions of Fort Gibson but also highlights its significance as a site of cross-cultural interactions and conflicts, offering invaluable insights into the broader themes of American history and expansionism. The contributions of Carolyn Thomas Foreman and Grant Foreman, in their respective capacities as editors and historians, anchor this collection within a rich contextual background that spans several decades of America's frontier past. Their collective expertise in American Indian history, Oklahomas history, and the broader narrative of the United States' westward expansion ensures a comprehensive understanding of Fort Gibson's role in shaping the American frontier. The Foremans' adept selection of materials reflects a deep engagement with historical, cultural, and literary movements, positioning this anthology as a critical intersection of diverse scholarly discourses. Fort Gibson is an indispensable resource for those eager to delve into the complex tapestry of American history. It offers readers a unique opportunity to engage with a wide array of perspectives, insights, and analyses concerning one of the nations historical keystones. This anthology serves not only as an educational tool but also as a platform for fostering a deeper understanding of the myriad ways in which Fort Gibson influenced the course of American development. The collection invites scholars, students, and history enthusiasts alike to explore the multifarious dimensions of Fort Gibson and its enduring legacy in American history.

Introduction by Donald E. Worcerster. Includes bibliographical references and index.

Any fan of exploration will find this diary of two soldiers exploring the western United States trying to map territory to place a reservation. Some of the language and attitudes in this book are hard to read from a modern perspective, native Americans treated as savages and moved and shunted around so the land could be exploited for material gain, if anything this makes this book an important book for anybody interested in how mindsets have changed.