Activity Overview
Andrew Jackson held a firm stance against the Native Americans, as evidenced by his past in the War of 1812 as well as the things he implemented during his presidency. This includes Jackson as an enemy of the natives (War of 1812, fighting of the Seminoles in Florida), his policies concerning American civilian interaction/conflict with the natives, the Trail of Tears, and the eventual Indian Removal Act of 1830.
Students will use a frayer model to define, describe, and relate Jackson as a soldier and president to his actions and responses to the "Indian Problem". They should choose four events or acts revolving around Native relations to discuss in their storyboard.
Example Events/Responses
- First Seminole War
- Second Seminole War
- Trail of Tears
- Indian Removal Act of 1830
Extended Activity
Students should research Worcester vs. Georgia, which will help incorporate the Supreme Court’s stance on Indian relocation, and rights to certain lands. Furthermore, it will help students understand Jackson’s response and defiance of the Supreme Court’s decision. It will be useful for students to connect the Executive Branch and Judicial Branch. In addition, they will be able to relate each branch to civil and human rights.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a frayer model describing President Jackson's reactions and actions to the "Indian Problem."
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify four actions/reactions to the "Indian Problem."
- In the description, summarize each event.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
Andrew Jackson held a firm stance against the Native Americans, as evidenced by his past in the War of 1812 as well as the things he implemented during his presidency. This includes Jackson as an enemy of the natives (War of 1812, fighting of the Seminoles in Florida), his policies concerning American civilian interaction/conflict with the natives, the Trail of Tears, and the eventual Indian Removal Act of 1830.
Students will use a frayer model to define, describe, and relate Jackson as a soldier and president to his actions and responses to the "Indian Problem". They should choose four events or acts revolving around Native relations to discuss in their storyboard.
Example Events/Responses
- First Seminole War
- Second Seminole War
- Trail of Tears
- Indian Removal Act of 1830
Extended Activity
Students should research Worcester vs. Georgia, which will help incorporate the Supreme Court’s stance on Indian relocation, and rights to certain lands. Furthermore, it will help students understand Jackson’s response and defiance of the Supreme Court’s decision. It will be useful for students to connect the Executive Branch and Judicial Branch. In addition, they will be able to relate each branch to civil and human rights.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a frayer model describing President Jackson's reactions and actions to the "Indian Problem."
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify four actions/reactions to the "Indian Problem."
- In the description, summarize each event.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Jackson and Indian Removal Act - Trail of Tears
How to facilitate a respectful classroom discussion about the Indian Removal Act and its impact
Prepare students with background knowledge by reviewing key events and perspectives about the Indian Removal Act and the Trail of Tears. Ensure all students understand the historical context and the consequences for Native Americans.
Set clear discussion guidelines for empathy and respect
Establish ground rules that encourage active listening, respectful disagreement, and sensitivity to diverse viewpoints. Model how to respond thoughtfully to challenging or emotional topics.
Use primary sources to spark authentic dialogue
Introduce primary documents like letters, speeches, or firsthand accounts related to the Indian Removal Act. Ask students to analyze multiple perspectives, including those of Native Americans, lawmakers, and settlers.
Encourage student reflection and connection
Invite students to reflect on how the events connect to current issues or their own experiences. Use prompts or journaling to deepen personal understanding and empathy.
Debrief and support emotional processing
End the discussion with a debrief to address questions or strong emotions. Provide space for students to share feelings and clarify misunderstandings in a supportive environment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Jackson and Indian Removal Act - Trail of Tears
What was the Indian Removal Act of 1830 and why was it enacted?
The Indian Removal Act of 1830 was a law signed by President Andrew Jackson that authorized the forced relocation of Native American tribes living east of the Mississippi River to lands in the west. It was enacted to open up land for white settlers and address conflicts between settlers and Native communities.
How did Andrew Jackson’s policies impact Native Americans during his presidency?
Andrew Jackson’s policies, especially the Indian Removal Act, led to the forced displacement of thousands of Native Americans, resulting in the Trail of Tears. His actions caused widespread suffering and loss of life among Native tribes.
What is the Trail of Tears and what events led to it?
The Trail of Tears refers to the forced march of Native Americans, mainly the Cherokee, from their homelands to designated Indian Territory. It was a direct result of the Indian Removal Act and Jackson’s enforcement of removal policies.
How can students use a Frayer model to analyze Jackson’s actions toward Native Americans?
Students can use a Frayer model by identifying and describing four key actions or reactions Jackson had toward the "Indian Problem," summarizing each event, and illustrating the impact using visuals for better understanding.
What was the significance of Worcester vs. Georgia in relation to Jackson’s policies?
Worcester vs. Georgia was a Supreme Court case that ruled in favor of Native American land rights. However, President Jackson defied the decision, highlighting tensions between the executive and judicial branches over civil and human rights.
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