During the 1820s and 1830s the land between the Appalachians and the Mississippi became settled. The former frontier states of Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee were becoming as civilized as the eastern states. As more pioneers moved into the areas of present-day Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Louisiana, the federal government began making treaties with the Native American tribes in these areas. The treaties forced the Indians to give up their land and move west of the Mississippi. This policy was said to protect the Indians and their way of life, but it also opened up rich farmland for new settlers. At this time, the area west of the Mississippi, where the Indians were to be relocated, was considered a worthless desert and not suitable for farming.

By the end of 1821 the federal government controlled most of Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Pioneers were coming...