The Cherokee Removal of 1838–1839 unfolded against a complex backdrop of competing ideologies, self-interest, party politics, altruism, and ambition. Using documents that convey Cherokee voices, government policy, and white citizens' views, Theda Perdue continues to present a multifaceted account of this complicated moment in American history. The third edition features new documents, including two contemporary newspaper articles and an interview with a former Cherokee slave. In addition, a new section allows readers to reflect on the legacy of the Trail of Tears and those affected by it. The introduction provides students with succinct historical background. Document headnotes contextualize the selections and draw attention to historical methodology. To aid students' investigation of this compelling topic, the map and the chronology of the Cherokee Removal have been augmented by new questions for consideration and a selected bibliography.