Indian Removal Hearings

   Today was the first day of the Senate hearing on the Indian Removal Bill.  Members from the Jackson Administration came down to defend the Bill that the President himself was supporting. Southern plantation owners and farmers came to explain why the Bill would be vital to their very survival.  Members of the Cherokee and Seminole tribes came to protest the Bill and defend their right to the land. Missionaries argued on behalf of the Cherokee tribe that they have lived amongst for the past few years.  

   Each of the groups did a very good job getting their views across.  Those responsible for the opening remarks were able to address the issue and give a summary of their groups summary.  I would like to acknowledge that some Cherokee groups and Missionaries did a wonderful job in their opening remarks.  Closers, there will be a good amount of pressure on your part for tomorrow.  Some did a better job then others in the cross examination portion of the hearing.  I do congratulate those who successfully stumped their opposition during the debate. 

    Today may have been a good lesson for some groups.  Levels of preparation and knowledge of the issue of Indian Removal was shown today.  Groups that were organized seemed to have an edge over those that were not as prepared.  Questioners and Answerers learned to think fast on their feet in some scenarios, and I applaud those who stood out.  

Closing remarks tomorrow, keep up the good work.