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Red Oak Middle School. John G. Burnett’s Story of the Removal of the Cherokees. Our Viewpoint…. The author of this document is an old man reflecting on his involvement in the Cherokee removal He is conflicted in his beliefs
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Red Oak Middle School John G. Burnett’s Story of the Removal of the Cherokees
Our Viewpoint… • The author of this document is an old man reflecting on his involvement in the Cherokee removal • He is conflicted in his beliefs • As a young man he lived alongside the Natives, even caring for one after an incident involving whites • He is also a private in the US Army during removal, forcing him to follow orders from superiors
Viewpoint • He worked to treat the Cherokees fairly, even through the harsh conditions • He helped bury some, gave his clothing to others • He relished in the fact that he was remembered as “the soldier that was good to us” by the Cherokee • He wishes he could return to the mountains to meet those that refused to leave on the Trail of Tears.
Viewpoint • He also pleaded that everyone would remember that this land was taken at gun point, through terrible actions including murder and destruction. • He emphasized this was taken through the white man’s greed, and was already being forgotten.