Looked at absolutely, we must frankly acknowledge that we have fallen very far short indeed of the high ideal we should have reached.

Looked at relatively, it must also be said that we have done better than any other nation or race working under our conditions.
The Watauga settlers outlined in advance the nation's work.

They tamed the rugged and shaggy wilderness, they bid defiance to outside foes, and they successfully solved the difficult problem of self-government.
1.

Then called the Cherokee.
2.

Volumes could be filled--and indeed it is hardly too much to say, have been filled--with worthless "proofs" of the ownership of Iroquois, Shawnees, or Cherokees, as the case might be.