Cherokee Phoenix

From the Syracuse Advertiser

Published September, 23, 1829

Page 2 Column 5b

From the Syracuse Advertiser

Indians and the Outrages. We have some reason or other heretofore been a little prejudiced against the aborigines; but since becoming acquainted with some facts, and witnessing repeated invasions of their rights, and a manifestation on the part of the whites of an entire disregard of their claims, our feelings have in a measure been enlisted in their behalf. Whatever their conduct was during the war, and whatever may be the prevailing opinion through the country relative to them, we cannot consider them otherwise at present then being very quiet and peaceable when left unmolested. That the character and disposition of this defenseless race of beings has been very much misrepresented, will appear apparent by referring back to past difficulties and their causes. It is not the Indians that are so savage, quarrelsome and such lovers of blood. It is the whites who reside near them that are merciless and cruel. It is their meanness of spirit which causes in most instances what is termed the 'Indian Outrages'--their skill in getting from the red man all he has that is valuable for a mere song.