Sam Houston And The American Southwest Summary

In Sam Houston and the American Southwest, the author, Randolph B. Campbell, argues that many of the political decisions that Sam Houston made throughout his life had been influenced by Houston’s practical approach to problems and issues and his level-headed nature. Houston developed this mindset through the years that he had lived with the Cherokee nation, and he exercised these ideas in such a way to further himself as a leader in the political world and to gain respect among his peers.
At the age of sixteen, Houston ran away from home and lived with a Cherokee tribe led by Chief Oo-loo-te-ka that was located fifty miles southwest of Maryville, Tennessee. While living with the Cherokees, Houston gained a unique understanding and respect for the Native American culture that most other white leaders did not fully appreciate. Houston’s knowledge of Native American traditions and culture helped to contribute to the respect Houston would gain in the political world.
In March 1813, Houston enlisted in the United States Army. While in the army, Houston had rapidly been promoted in higher ranks and would eventually serve under Andrew Jackson’s command. Houston …show more content…
Jackson’s popularity among the public assisted Houston in gaining respect as Houston would eventually be elected governor of Tennessee. As a lawyer, congressman and eventually governor, Houston had an understanding for the Native Americans that assisted Houston in gaining the mindset necessary to make wise decisions as a politician. After serving as governor of Tennessee, Houston became an ambassador of the Cherokee nation. Due to the fact that Houston had lived as a member of the Cherokee nation, he had seen the effects of war among the Native Americans giving him motivation and reason to value peace and justice for Native American