Describe symbolism in Sam Houston and the American Southwest by Randolph B. Campbell

Indian dress represents Indian culture. For several years, Sam Houston worked as a diplomat for the Indians, and especially the Cherokee Indians. In many meetings with U.S. officials, Houston showed his solidarity with the Indians by dressing like them. In one famous encounter with John Calhoun, Calhoun scolded Houston for his costume, and Houston and Calhoun became lifelong enemies.