USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -On review of the case, the Supreme Court in Worcester v. Georgia ruled that because the Cherokee Nation was a separate political entity that could not be regulated by the state, Georgia’s license law was unconstitutional and Worcester’s conviction should be overturned.

Detailed explanation-2: -Most prominently, in the 1832 decision in Worcester v. Georgia, 6 Pet. 515, 561, this Court held that Georgia state law had no force in the Cherokee Nation because the Cherokee Nation “is a distinct community occupying its own territory.”

Detailed explanation-3: -Worcester claimed Georgia’s action was unconstitutional based on three arguments: Georgia had violated federal treaties; impaired the obligation of contracts between the United States and the Cherokee; and interfered with the federal power to regulate commerce with Indians. Worcester was a “win” for the Cherokee.

Detailed explanation-4: -Georgia, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Cherokee Nation was sovereign. According to the decision rendered by Chief Justice John Marshall, this meant that Georgia had no rights to enforce state laws in its territory.