American Indian Removal – Object #6

Choctaw Removal Song

Download song lyrics

<p>The source is a transcript of a Choctaw song with original lyrics in the native language and an English translation. It is part of an exhibit on the Trail of Tears through Arkansas by the UA Little Rock Center for Arkansas History and Culture.</p>

Lyrics from a Choctaw song describing Indian Removal, published in the early 20th century.

Excerpts

“Hinaushi pisali, Bok Chito onali, yayali.”
[I saw a trail to the big river and then I cried.]

Question:

What point of view does this source show?

What questions do you have after reading this source?

Citations

Muriel H. Wright, “A Chieftain’s ‘Farewell Letter’ to the American People,” American Indian 1 (December 1926), 7, 12.