General History of the Western Indian Tribes 1851-1870 – Indian Wars
From 1851, vast territories east of the Rockies were designated as Indian Territory, where numerous tribes roamed. The discovery of gold in California sparked emigration, leading to treaties that confined tribes like the Cheyennes and Arapahoes to specific areas while promising annual payments. Tensions escalated, culminating in the Sand Creek Massacre in 1864, followed by ongoing conflicts. By 1868, efforts to negotiate peace resulted in treaties relocating tribes to reservations, as Indian populations dwindled and government policies shifted to assert control and promote their civilization.