In 1828, Americans elected Andrew Jackson to the White House. As a general, Jackson had led campaigns against Indians. His victories ensured that the Indians were deprived of the strength to continue resisting the United States. In light of this new reality, Jackson saw no reason for the United States to respect the treaties it had signed with the Indians in the past.

 

Jackson wanted to force Indians from lands his supporters—mostly small farmers—coveted. The story of the expulsion of Indians in the South is well known: we call it the Trail of Tears. However, the same process took place in Ohio—and it took place here first. This exhibit tells that story, with a focus on two of Ohio’s Native nations: the Shawnees and the Wyandots.