Office of Commissioner of Indian Affairs created

Background. The United States Department of War was responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Army and initially handled naval affairs. Secretary Calhoun created the Bureau of Indian Affairs in 1824 as the main agency for Native American issues within the War Department. This structure persisted until Congress established the Commissioner of Indian Affairs position in 1832, providing statutory authority to the agency.

Legislative Action. Congress established the position of Commissioner of Indian Affairs in 1832. This action granted the agency statutory authority, formalizing its role within the federal government. The office was situated within the War Department, reflecting the military's historical responsibility for Indian affairs prior to the agency's transfer to the Department of the Interior in 1849.

Administrative Transition. Prior to 1832, the Indian Office within the War Department was led by chief clerks from 1824. The creation of the Commissioner position in 1832 marked a change in leadership structure. The agency remained under the War Department until 1849, when Congress transferred it to the newly founded Department of the Interior.