Which Supreme Court case ruled that Georgia laws had no authority in Cherokee territory?

Prepare for the APUSH Immigration Test with our comprehensive study guide. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each supported by hints and explanations. Ready yourself for success!

The Supreme Court case that ruled Georgia laws had no authority in Cherokee territory is Worcester v. Georgia. In this landmark case decided in 1832, the Court held that the state of Georgia could not impose its laws on the Cherokee Nation, which was recognized as a distinct political community with its own sovereignty. Chief Justice John Marshall stated that only the federal government had the authority to regulate affairs with Native American tribes, solidifying the principle of tribal sovereignty. This ruling was significant because it reinforced the rights of Native American nations and challenged state incursions into their territories. Despite the ruling, the federal government, under President Andrew Jackson, did not enforce the decision, leading to further conflict over Native American lands.

The other cases listed do not pertain to tribal sovereignty or Native American law, making Worcester v. Georgia the only relevant option regarding the Cherokee Nation and Georgia's legal jurisdiction over that territory.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy