Which Supreme Court case ruled that the Cherokee Nation could not be forcibly removed from their lands?

Study for the CLEP US History 1 Test. Immerse in flashcards and multiple choice questions, each complete with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The Supreme Court case that ruled the Cherokee Nation could not be forcibly removed from their lands is Worcester v. Georgia. This landmark decision, delivered in 1832, established that the Cherokee Nation was a distinct community with self-government and that the states did not have the right to impose their laws upon Native American lands. Chief Justice John Marshall emphasized that the federal government had the authority to govern relations with the tribes and that the Cherokee's rights to their territory were protected under federal law.

This ruling was significant as it highlighted the sovereignty of Native American tribes and set a legal precedent regarding their rights. Although the decision was in favor of the Cherokee, it was largely ignored by the state of Georgia and President Andrew Jackson, leading to the tragic removal of the Cherokee known as the Trail of Tears. This case underscores the ongoing struggles between Native American nations and the federal government regarding land rights and sovereignty.

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