Kansas-Nebraska Act: What's Up With the Closing Lines?

    Kansas-Nebraska Act: What's Up With the Closing Lines?

      And be it further enacted, That all treaties, laws, and other engagements made by the government of the United States with the Indian tribes inhabiting the territories embraced within this act, shall be faithfully and rigidly observed, notwithstanding any thing contained in this act; and that the existing agencies and superintendencies of said Indians be continued with the same powers and duties which are now prescribed by law, except that the President of the United States may, at his discretion, change the location of the office of superintendent.

      Approved, May 30, 1854. (37.1-2)

      Who doesn't love a great closing line? Forget about first impressions—sometimes it's the last impression that makes all the difference, right?

      Maybe it's the drama, maybe it's the seriousness of the whole thing, but that whole "Approved, May 30, 1854" thing really does it for us. Seriously, someone pass us a fan. It's just too exhilarating.

      But in this case, that last impression isn't all due to the closing line. It's due to Section 37 in its entirety, the only section of the Kansas-Nebraska Act written to apply to both Territory Nebraska and Territory Kansas.

      And what does it say that merits such special attention and such a prominent position? Well, it tells us that the treaties, agreements, and laws that exist between the federal government and any and all Native American tribes are to remain in existence and be observed in both new territories. It also reminds us that the POTUS can change the location of the superintendent's office, but the real meat is in the "treaties" part.

      Do what you will with other stuff, the federal government says, but don't go treading on our treaties.

      Now there's a good closing line.