What was the Supreme Court's ruling in Worcester v. Georgia?

The Supreme Court's ruling in Worcester v. Georgia established that Georgia's laws could not extend into Cherokee territory, affirming the sovereignty of the Cherokee Nation. The case arose when Samuel Worcester, a missionary, was charged for living in Cherokee territory without a state permit. The Court determined that the federal government had recognized the independence of the Cherokee Nation through treaties, which meant state laws, like those of Georgia, did not have jurisdiction over Cherokee lands. This ruling highlighted the limitations of state authority in matters concerning Native American nations and underscored the federal government's obligation to protect Native American rights against state encroachments. This decision was significant in reinforcing the principle of federal supremacy in disputes involving Native American sovereignty.