America’s Historic Cruelty

The rather intense-looking fellow at the upper right is John C. Calhoun, U.S. vice president from 1825 to 1832 under James Monroe. That scowl was indicative of America at the time, rooted as it was in wanton cruelty.

1830 saw the beginning of the Trail of Tears, a series of forced relocations of approximately 60,000 Native Americans, carried out by government authorities (state and local militias) following the passage of the Indian Removal Act.  These relocated peoples suffered from exposure, disease, and starvation while en route to their new designated reserves. Several thousands died before reaching their destinations or shortly after from disease.

FWIW, I think Kamala Harris will do a fine job as veep.  She’s an honest and intelligent person with solid, humanitarian values.