CHEROKEE PHOENIX
Wednesday, February 4, 1829
Volume 1 No. 47
Page 2 Col. 3a-4a

The following is extracted from a letter, addressed to the Editor by a particular friend.  We insert it as conveying the prevailing sentiment of the Nation.

 "I have read with considerable interest, that part of the Message of the President of the United States to Congress which relates to Indian affairs, also the report of the Secretary of War on the same subject.  You perceive that these executive documents, as usual, are prolific with new plans and sentiment, in regard to the Indians.  I confess that I was surprised to observe such language from the executive of the United States- in this enlightened age.  The General Government has been very friendly to us, until within a few years past, when it is gradually assuming another character.  Instead of protecting us in all our rights as secured to us by solemn treaties, every ingenuity is set at work to obtain our small tract of country.  This state of things commenced at the moment we refused to cede any more of our lands.  The professions of the General Government of her wish for our prosperity were then contrary to her real intentions.  In other words, so long as land was to be had from us in exchange for a few blankets, tobacco &c. the Govt. lavished its fair professions.  But now when we have no more to spare, we become the objects of censure.  Our Missionary friends also, who are teaching us the way to heaven, have incurred the displeasure of those who want our land."

This transcription from the Cherokee Phoenix is presented as part of the historical record, and includes historical materials that may contain negative stereotypes or language reflecting the culture or language of a particular period or place including terminology that may not be deemed appropriate today. While an effort has been made to verify the transcription against the original text, complete accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Researchers are urged to match the transcription against the original article to authenticate exact quotes. Issues of the Cherokee Phoenix are available on microfilm. Please check your local library for availability or to inquire about interlibrary loan of a microfilm copy.

Send comments or questions to: George Frizzell
Special Collections . Hunter Library . Western Carolina University . Cullowhee, NC 28723 . 828-227-7474