Table of Contents Native American Resistance: Chief Pontiac's PositionTecumseh's Call and Native American ResilienceThe Tragic Trail of Tears and the Seminole WarsConclusionReferencesThe Late 18th Century to The mid-19th century was a time of deep crisis for Native American tribes in the United States. As westward expansion continued unchecked, Native Americans found themselves increasingly marginalized and dispossessed from their ancestral lands. This essay explores the tumultuous journey of Native American tribes during this era, from the resistance efforts of Chief Pontiac to the tragic “Trail of Tears” and the Seminole Wars, highlighting the injustices they endured. Say no to plagiarism. Get a custom essay on "Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned"?Get the original essayNative American Resistance: Chief Pontiac's StandIn 1763, Chief Pontiac, leader of the Ottowa tribe, took a courageous stand to defend its people against the encroachments of British Forces and settlers. The British had sought to reduce Native American tribes to dependency, sparking conflicts along the frontier. Pontiac voiced the grievances of the Native Americans, emphasizing the United States' lack of interest in their well-being. His words resonated: “When I ask him for something for our sick, he refuses and tells me that he doesn't need us. Additionally, the Native Americans faced exorbitant prices for their goods compared to what they had paid the French. Chief Pontiac's response was the Pontiac Rebellion, a concerted effort to drive the British from their lands. With a force of 60 men and the support of his village, they succeeded in destroying nine of the eleven British posts. This rebellion marked a pivotal moment in the resistance of Native Americans against the colonial powers. Tecumseh's Call and Native American Resilience Fast forward to August 20, 1810, when Shawnee warrior Tecumseh delivered an important speech before Governor Harrison. Tecumseh's speech was one of the first attempts by Native Americans to appeal to the United States for understanding and compassion. He blamed the Americans for the execution of village leaders who had sold them Indian land. Tecumseh’s words contained a poignant plea: “Now I wish you would listen to me. If you don't do this, it will appear that you want me to kill all the chiefs who sold you this land. » As tensions escalated, Native Americans became worried. to accept gifts from the United States, fearing that they would be interpreted as an exchange of their lands. Their message to Harrison was clear: "If you do not abandon the land and cross the boundaries of your present colony, it will be very difficult and will produce great trouble among us." » Their calls for justice and understanding fell largely on deaf ears. The Tragic Trail of Seminole Tears and Wars In 1830, President Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act into law, an attempt to move Native American tribes to the west bank of the Mississippi River to make way for Americans. settlers. While most tribes reluctantly agreed to move, the Cherokee Nation resisted and filed a lawsuit against Georgia. The government's threat to cease protection of the tribes ultimately convinced many people to leave their lands. In 1838, American troops forcibly removed 18,000 Cherokee from their homeland, leading to the tragic “Trail of Tears.” An incredible 4,000 Cherokees perished from starvation and disease during this journey..