Choctaw chief speaks

May 19, 1843

Head Mingo of the Choctaws east of the Mississippi, replies to a speech by an agent of the United States.  Here is an excerpt: “…. When you took our country, you promised us land. There is your promise in the book. Twelve times have the trees dropped down their leaves, and yet we have received no land.  Our houses have been taken from us.  The white man’s plow turns up the bones of our fathers. We dare not kindle our fires; and yet you said we might remain, and you would give us land. ….”