The Indian Removal Act was a law passed by the United States government in 1830. Its purpose was to force the native tribes of the southeastern United States to move west of the Mississippi River to make way for white settlers. This eventuality meant that thousands of Indians were forced to leave their country and travel hundreds of miles into unknown territories. The Indian Removal Act led to the tragic and unjust events known as the Trail of Tears. It was the forced relocation of Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, and Seminole tribes. Many natives suffered from harsh conditions, starvation, and disease during this journey. Thousands died along the way, making it