Cherokee Tribe: Long-Term Impacts on America

The Cherokee Nation, a prominent Indigenous group, holds a complex and multifaceted history that continues to shape the American landscape. The Trail of Tears, a tragic event representing the forced relocation of the Cherokee people by the United States government, stands as a stark reminder of the injustices faced by Native Americans and a significant cause of cultural disruption. Cherokee Freedmen, individuals formerly enslaved by Cherokee citizens and their descendants, represent a unique population whose rights and status have sparked considerable legal and ethical debate, affecting tribal membership and federal recognition. Considering these historical and social factors, what are some long term impact of the Cherokee Tribe? One critical area for evaluation in answering this question involves examining the tribe's ongoing influence on Native American sovereignty through their established governance structures and legal precedents, especially their impact on laws enacted in Oklahoma.

The Cherokee Nation stands as a testament to resilience, cultural richness, and enduring sovereignty. Understanding their history is not merely an academic exercise. It is essential for comprehending the complexities of Indigenous experiences in North America and the ongoing struggle for self-determination.

From their pre-colonial societal structures to their contemporary political landscape, the Cherokee story is interwoven with pivotal moments in American history. This section sets the stage for exploring the key aspects of Cherokee history, culture, and sovereignty. It aims to provide a comprehensive yet accessible overview.

The Enduring Significance of the Cherokee People

The Cherokee people have played a significant role in the shaping of the cultural landscape of the American Southeast. Their influence is felt from ancient mound-building practices to modern-day contributions in art, literature, and governance.

Historically, the Cherokee Nation possessed a complex social and political system. They were renowned for their agricultural practices and sophisticated understanding of the natural world.

Today, the Cherokee Nation remains a vibrant and influential entity, actively engaged in preserving its cultural heritage, promoting economic development, and asserting its sovereign rights.

Their story continues to evolve, shaped by both the challenges of the past and the opportunities of the future.

Scope and Purpose: A Multifaceted Exploration

This section serves as an introduction to a more comprehensive analysis of Cherokee history, culture, and sovereignty. It focuses on key events, figures, and concepts that have shaped the Cherokee experience.

The exploration will delve into:

• Pre-colonial life.
• The tumultuous period of European contact.
• The tragic Trail of Tears.
• The subsequent rebuilding of the Cherokee Nation.

Furthermore, it will explore contemporary challenges and triumphs. The objective is to provide a nuanced understanding of the Cherokee Nation's past, present, and future.

A Commitment to Balanced Perspectives

The information presented in this section, and subsequent sections, is compiled from a diverse range of credible sources. This includes:

• Academic research.
• Primary historical documents.
• Oral histories.
• Perspectives from Cherokee scholars and community members.

This commitment to diverse sources ensures a balanced and well-researched narrative. It acknowledges the complexities and nuances of Cherokee history. It strives to offer a respectful and accurate portrayal of the Cherokee experience.

Pre-Colonial Cherokee Society and Early European Contact

The Cherokee Nation stands as a testament to resilience, cultural richness, and enduring sovereignty. Understanding their history is not merely an academic exercise. It is essential for comprehending the complexities of Indigenous experiences in North America and the ongoing struggle for self-determination. From their pre-colonial societal structures to the challenges posed by early European interactions and the American Revolution, the Cherokee story is one of adaptation, resistance, and profound transformation.

Social and Political Structures Before Colonization

Before the arrival of Europeans, the Cherokee people possessed a sophisticated and well-organized society. Their settlements were typically located in present-day areas of the Southeastern United States, including parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee.

The Cherokee social structure was characterized by a clan system, where individuals belonged to one of seven or more matrilineal clans. These clans played a crucial role in social organization, determining kinship, inheritance, and marriage eligibility. The clan system fostered a sense of community and mutual support, ensuring that every individual had a place within the larger social fabric.

Politically, the Cherokee were organized into autonomous villages, each with its own leadership and council. These village councils, composed of respected elders and leaders, made decisions regarding local affairs, conflict resolution, and resource management.

The Cherokee also maintained a national council, which convened to address issues of common concern, such as warfare, diplomacy, and trade. This national council fostered a sense of unity among the various Cherokee settlements and allowed for collective action when necessary.

Economic Organization and Resource Management

The Cherokee economy before European contact was primarily agrarian, with agriculture playing a central role in their subsistence. The Cherokee cultivated crops such as corn, beans, squash, and sunflowers, which provided a stable food supply. They also supplemented their diet through hunting, fishing, and gathering wild plants and fruits.

Land was held communally, with each family having the right to cultivate a portion for their own use. The Cherokee practiced sustainable resource management, ensuring that the natural environment was preserved for future generations. This careful stewardship of the land reflected their deep respect for nature and their understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things.

Initial Encounters with Europeans

The arrival of Europeans in the 16th and 17th centuries marked a turning point in Cherokee history. Initial interactions were characterized by trade, with the Cherokee exchanging furs and other goods for European tools, weapons, and textiles. However, this exchange also brought diseases, such as smallpox and measles, which decimated the Cherokee population.

The introduction of European goods also had a transformative effect on Cherokee society, altering traditional economic practices and social structures. The demand for furs led to increased hunting, which in turn depleted animal populations and disrupted the ecological balance.

Impacts of Trade and Disease

The fur trade also created new economic inequalities, as some individuals and families gained access to European goods while others were left behind. The spread of diseases further weakened Cherokee society, making it more vulnerable to external pressures.

Despite these challenges, the Cherokee adapted and persevered, maintaining their cultural identity and resisting European encroachment. They sought to control trade relations and used diplomacy to navigate the complex political landscape of the colonial era.

The American Revolution and Cherokee Involvement

The American Revolution had a profound impact on the Cherokee Nation. Initially, the Cherokee attempted to remain neutral in the conflict between the British and the American colonists. However, as the war progressed, pressure from both sides led to divisions within the Cherokee Nation.

Some Cherokee leaders, influenced by British promises and grievances over land encroachment, aligned themselves with the British. Others sided with the American colonists, hoping to secure their land rights and maintain peaceful relations.

The Cherokee's involvement in the American Revolution resulted in devastating consequences. Cherokee towns were attacked and destroyed by American militias, and their lands were confiscated. The Treaty of Hopewell in 1785, intended to establish peace between the Cherokee and the United States, ultimately failed to protect Cherokee land rights and sovereignty.

Aftermath and Shifting US-Cherokee Relations

In the aftermath of the American Revolution, US-Cherokee relations deteriorated further. The United States government, driven by westward expansion and land hunger, pursued policies aimed at dispossessing the Cherokee of their ancestral lands. This period marked the beginning of a long and tragic chapter in Cherokee history, culminating in the forced removal of the Cherokee people from their homeland in the 19th century.

Despite the challenges they faced, the Cherokee demonstrated remarkable resilience, maintaining their cultural identity and adapting to the changing circumstances. The seeds of future resistance and self-determination were sown in this period, setting the stage for the Cherokee Nation's ongoing struggle for sovereignty and justice.

19th-Century Transformation: Adaptation and Resilience

As the Cherokee Nation navigated the early years of the 19th century, it faced increasing pressures from westward expansion and changing U.S. policies. This era became a crucible in which the Cherokee adapted, innovated, and struggled to maintain their identity amidst relentless external forces. This period also saw the rise of pivotal figures whose actions and decisions profoundly shaped the trajectory of Cherokee history.

Societal and Cultural Adaptations

The 19th century marked a period of significant transformation within Cherokee society. Faced with the encroachment of European-American settlers, the Cherokee people strategically adopted aspects of Western culture. This was an effort to demonstrate their capacity for "civilization" and thus protect their sovereignty and ancestral lands.

These adaptations included embracing agriculture, establishing a formal government modeled after the United States, developing a written language, and converting to Christianity. However, these changes were not without internal tensions, as different factions within the Nation held varying views on the extent and desirability of assimilation.

Key Figures in Cherokee History

Several individuals played crucial roles in shaping the Cherokee Nation's response to these challenges:

Sequoyah and the Cherokee Syllabary

Perhaps the most remarkable achievement of this era was the creation of the Cherokee Syllabary by Sequoyah. Recognizing the power of literacy, Sequoyah single-handedly invented a writing system for the Cherokee language.

This innovation allowed for the rapid dissemination of knowledge and facilitated the publication of the Cherokee Phoenix, the Nation's first newspaper.

The syllabary became a potent symbol of Cherokee ingenuity and cultural pride. It empowered the Cherokee people to communicate, educate themselves, and preserve their history in their own language.

John Ross: A Leader in Turbulent Times

As Principal Chief for nearly four decades, John Ross led the Cherokee Nation through an era of immense upheaval.

His astute leadership was characterized by his unwavering commitment to defending Cherokee sovereignty. Ross employed diplomatic and legal strategies to resist removal.

Despite facing formidable odds, Ross remained steadfast in his dedication to his people. He shepherded them through the tragic events of the Trail of Tears and the subsequent rebuilding of the Nation in Indian Territory.

Elias Boudinot and the Cherokee Phoenix

Elias Boudinot, a prominent Cherokee intellectual and editor of the Cherokee Phoenix, played a vital role in advocating for Cherokee rights and disseminating information.

Through the newspaper, Boudinot sought to educate both the Cherokee people and the broader American public about Cherokee culture, achievements, and grievances.

His later support for the Treaty of New Echota, however, created deep divisions within the Nation, tragically leading to his assassination.

Nancy Ward: A Voice for Tradition and Peace

Nancy Ward, or Nanyehi, was a respected Cherokee woman who served as a Beloved Woman. As a Beloved Woman, she was entitled to sit in council and to make decisions.

She was a diplomat, and advocate for peaceful relations with European-Americans.

She embodied traditional Cherokee values of diplomacy, peacemaking, and the importance of women in Cherokee society.

Major Ridge and the Treaty of New Echota

Major Ridge, a prominent Cherokee leader and warrior, believed that removal was inevitable. He ultimately signed the Treaty of New Echota without the consent of the Cherokee National Council.

This act was deeply controversial. It led to the forced removal of the Cherokee people from their ancestral lands.

Ridge's decision remains a subject of debate among historians and the Cherokee people. Some view him as a pragmatist who sought to secure the best possible terms for his people under impossible circumstances. Others see him as a traitor who betrayed the Nation's sovereignty.

New Echota: A Symbol of Cherokee Governance

New Echota, established in present-day Georgia, served as the capital of the Cherokee Nation from 1825 to 1838. It was a thriving center of Cherokee governance, culture, and commerce.

The town housed the Cherokee National Council, the Supreme Court, and the Cherokee Phoenix newspaper.

New Echota represented the Cherokee Nation's aspirations for self-determination. However, its existence was cut short by the forced removal. Today, New Echota is preserved as a historic site, a poignant reminder of the Cherokee Nation's vibrant past and the injustices they endured.

The 19th century was a pivotal era in Cherokee history, marked by adaptation, resilience, and profound transformation. The leaders, events, and decisions of this time continue to shape the Cherokee Nation's identity. They influence its ongoing pursuit of sovereignty and cultural preservation in the 21st century.

The Trail of Tears: Forced Removal and Its Legacy

As the Cherokee Nation navigated the early years of the 19th century, it faced increasing pressures from westward expansion and changing U.S. policies. This era became a crucible in which the Cherokee adapted, innovated, and struggled to maintain their identity amidst relentless external forces. These factors ultimately culminated in one of the most tragic chapters in Cherokee history: the forced removal of the Cherokee people from their ancestral lands, infamously known as the Trail of Tears.

This section delves into the critical events and legislative actions that led to this devastating outcome, examining its profound and lasting impact on the Cherokee Nation.

The Indian Removal Act of 1830: A Foundation for Injustice

The Indian Removal Act of 1830 served as the legislative cornerstone for the forced displacement of numerous Native American tribes, including the Cherokee. Championed by President Andrew Jackson, the Act authorized the President to negotiate treaties with tribes, exchanging their eastern lands for territories west of the Mississippi River.

While presented as a voluntary exchange, the Act created immense pressure on tribes, rendering them vulnerable to coercion and manipulation. It effectively sanctioned the seizure of Native American lands, prioritizing the interests of white settlers and fueling the expansionist ambitions of the United States.

The Act's implications were far-reaching, undermining tribal sovereignty and setting a dangerous precedent for future injustices against Native Americans. It stands as a stark reminder of the power imbalance that characterized U.S.-Native American relations during this period.

Worcester v. Georgia (1832): A Victory Undermined

In a landmark case, Worcester v. Georgia (1832), the Supreme Court, under Chief Justice John Marshall, ruled that the state of Georgia could not enforce its laws on Cherokee territory.

The Court affirmed the Cherokee Nation's status as a sovereign entity, possessing the right to self-governance and freedom from state interference. This decision was a significant legal victory for the Cherokee, bolstering their claims to their ancestral lands.

However, President Jackson infamously refused to enforce the Court's ruling, reportedly stating, "John Marshall has made his decision; now let him enforce it." Jackson's defiance effectively nullified the impact of Worcester v. Georgia, paving the way for the continued violation of Cherokee rights and the eventual forced removal.

The Treaty of New Echota (1835): A Catalyst for Tragedy

The Treaty of New Echota, signed in 1835 by a small, unauthorized group of Cherokee citizens, ceded all Cherokee lands east of the Mississippi River to the United States in exchange for five million dollars and land in Indian Territory.

This treaty was deeply controversial, as it was not ratified by the Cherokee National Council or Principal Chief John Ross. The vast majority of the Cherokee people vehemently opposed the treaty, viewing it as illegitimate and a betrayal of their sovereignty.

Nevertheless, the U.S. government recognized the Treaty of New Echota as legally binding, using it as justification for the forced removal of the Cherokee. The treaty remains a contentious issue in Cherokee history, symbolizing the manipulation and exploitation that fueled the Trail of Tears.

The Trail of Tears (1838-1839): A Journey of Suffering and Loss

Despite legal challenges and widespread opposition, the U.S. government proceeded with the forced removal of the Cherokee in 1838. Under the supervision of federal troops, Cherokee families were forcibly evicted from their homes, rounded up into stockades, and marched westward to Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma).

This harrowing journey, known as the Trail of Tears, was marked by immense suffering, disease, starvation, and death. Thousands of Cherokee people perished along the way, their lives lost to the brutal conditions and callous indifference of the U.S. government.

The Trail of Tears represents a profound tragedy in Cherokee history, a testament to the devastating consequences of injustice and the enduring strength of the Cherokee spirit.

Resettlement in Indian Territory (Oklahoma): Rebuilding Amidst Loss

Upon arrival in Indian Territory, the Cherokee faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives and communities. They re-established their government, schools, and churches, striving to preserve their culture and traditions in the face of immense loss.

The relocation process was fraught with challenges, including conflicts with other tribes already residing in the territory, resource scarcity, and the lingering trauma of the Trail of Tears. Despite these hardships, the Cherokee demonstrated remarkable resilience, working to create a new home for themselves and their descendants.

The legacy of the Trail of Tears continues to resonate within the Cherokee Nation today, serving as a reminder of the injustices they have overcome and the importance of safeguarding their sovereignty and cultural heritage.

Rebuilding and Division: The Cherokee Nation in Indian Territory

As the Cherokee Nation navigated the early years of the 19th century, it faced increasing pressures from westward expansion and changing U.S. policies. This era became a crucible in which the Cherokee adapted, innovated, and struggled to maintain their identity amidst relentless external forces. The forced removal to Indian Territory marked not an end, but a painful new beginning, one characterized by both rebuilding and deep internal divisions.

The task of reconstructing their nation in this new environment demanded resilience and strategic adaptation. However, the wounds of the Trail of Tears and differing visions for the future created fissures that would significantly shape Cherokee history.

Re-Establishing Governance in Indian Territory

The immediate priority upon reaching Indian Territory was the re-establishment of a functioning government. The Cherokee Nation sought to recreate the institutions that had been forcibly dismantled in their homeland.

This meant re-establishing their court system, legislative council, and executive leadership. It also meant creating a framework for land distribution and resource management in this unfamiliar territory.

Rebuilding efforts were complicated by the immense loss of life and the trauma experienced during the removal. The Cherokee people had to simultaneously address the immediate needs of their population while laying the foundation for long-term stability.

The American Civil War: A Nation Divided

The outbreak of the American Civil War deepened existing fractures within the Cherokee Nation. The issue of slavery, which had become increasingly contentious, fueled divisions.

Some Cherokee, particularly those who had rebuilt their lives as slaveholders, aligned themselves with the Confederacy. Others, remembering the injustices inflicted upon them by the United States, saw an opportunity to assert their sovereignty by siding with the South.

Stand Watie and Confederate Allegiance

Stand Watie, a prominent Cherokee leader, became a Brigadier General in the Confederate Army. He led Cherokee forces in numerous battles throughout the war. Watie's decision to side with the Confederacy reflected the complex political calculations of the time.

He believed that alliance with the South offered the best chance to protect Cherokee interests and maintain their way of life. However, his actions further divided the Cherokee people, pitting them against each other in a devastating conflict.

Union Support and Internal Conflict

Other Cherokee citizens remained loyal to the Union. These individuals often faced persecution and violence at the hands of Confederate sympathizers within the Nation.

The Civil War created a state of near-constant internal conflict, disrupting efforts to rebuild and undermining the fragile sense of unity that remained. The war amplified existing tensions, creating lasting scars within Cherokee society.

The Reconstruction Era: Federal Intervention and Renewed Challenges

The Reconstruction Era following the Civil War brought further challenges for the Cherokee Nation. The U.S. government, seeking to punish those who had sided with the Confederacy, imposed new treaties and regulations.

These measures further eroded Cherokee sovereignty and autonomy. The government also insisted on the abolition of slavery within the Nation, a change that created significant economic and social upheaval.

Federal authorities also sought to exert greater control over Cherokee affairs, often intervening in internal political matters. This period marked a continuation of the long struggle to balance the desire for self-determination with the realities of federal power.

The Reconstruction Era presented a complex set of challenges for the Cherokee Nation, requiring both adaptation and resistance in the face of external pressures and internal divisions. The struggle for survival and self-governance continued, even after the guns of the Civil War fell silent.

Assimilation Policies and Land Allotment: Eroding Sovereignty

As the Cherokee Nation navigated the early years of the 19th century, it faced increasing pressures from westward expansion and changing U.S. policies. This era became a crucible in which the Cherokee adapted, innovated, and struggled to maintain their identity amidst relentless external forces aiming to dismantle their way of life. The insidious nature of assimilation policies, coupled with the systematic land allotment, represented a deliberate attempt to erode Cherokee sovereignty and fundamentally alter their societal structure.

The Dawes Act and the Dismantling of Communal Land Ownership

The General Allotment Act of 1887, commonly known as the Dawes Act, stands as a pivotal point in the history of U.S.-Native American relations. Its purported aim was to integrate Native Americans into mainstream American society by dissolving tribal land ownership. Land was to be divided into individual allotments.

For the Cherokee, the Dawes Act had devastating consequences. The traditional communal land system, deeply ingrained in Cherokee culture and social fabric, was dismantled.

This policy not only undermined the economic foundation of the Cherokee Nation. It also disrupted the intricate social and familial bonds that were tied to collective land management.

The allotment process led to significant land loss. The remaining "surplus" land, after allotment, was opened to white settlers. This further diminished the Cherokee land base and fractured their territorial integrity.

This Act directly contradicted treaties made between the US government and the Cherokee Nation. The concept of tribal sovereignty was undermined by policies enacted by the government.

Boarding Schools: A Tool of Cultural Erasure

Alongside land allotment, boarding schools became a central tool in the forced assimilation of Cherokee children. These institutions, often run by religious organizations with government support, were designed to strip Native American children of their cultural identities.

Cherokee children were forcibly removed from their families and communities. They were subjected to strict regimens that prohibited the use of their language, the practice of their traditions, and the expression of their cultural heritage.

The impact of these boarding schools was profound and far-reaching. Generations of Cherokee children suffered emotional, psychological, and spiritual trauma.

This trauma disrupted the intergenerational transmission of cultural knowledge and traditions. The schools' practices inflicted lasting wounds on individuals, families, and the Cherokee Nation as a whole. The aim was to break the connections to the past and to force the next generation to conform to the majority culture.

The Cherokee Constitution: A Framework Under Siege

The Cherokee Nation, recognizing the importance of self-governance, had established a written constitution in 1827. This document, modeled after the U.S. Constitution, outlined the framework for their government, legal system, and civic life.

However, the implementation of assimilation policies and land allotment directly challenged the principles enshrined in the Cherokee Constitution. The U.S. government, through legislative acts and administrative decisions, exerted increasing control over Cherokee affairs.

This undermined the authority of the Cherokee government and diminished its capacity to protect the rights and interests of its citizens. The allotment and assimilation policies further destabilized the Nation's government. The policies created internal conflicts.

Historical and Legal Claims to Ancestral Lands

The Cherokee Nation's historical and legal claims to their ancestral lands are rooted in centuries of occupancy, treaties with the U.S. government, and inherent rights as a sovereign people. Despite the forced removal and the subsequent land losses, the Cherokee have steadfastly maintained their claims to their aboriginal territories.

The legal battles fought by the Cherokee Nation over land rights have been complex and protracted. These struggles have often involved navigating a legal system that has historically been biased against Native American interests.

Nonetheless, the Cherokee have persisted in asserting their rights. They sought to redress historical injustices through litigation, negotiation, and political advocacy.

These claims extend beyond mere economic considerations. Land is deeply intertwined with Cherokee culture, spirituality, and identity. The ability to access and steward ancestral lands is essential for preserving cultural heritage and ensuring the well-being of future generations.

The 20th Century: Self-Determination and Cultural Revival

As the Cherokee Nation moved into the 20th century, the landscape of Indigenous affairs in the United States began to shift, albeit gradually. The policies of assimilation, which had dominated the previous decades, started to face increasing scrutiny, paving the way for new legislative measures and a resurgence of tribal identity and self-governance. This era witnessed a complex interplay of federal actions, Cherokee initiatives, and the unwavering spirit of a people determined to reclaim their heritage and shape their own destiny.

The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924

One of the pivotal moments in this transformative period was the passage of the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924. This act granted full U.S. citizenship to all Native Americans, including members of the Cherokee Nation.

While seemingly a progressive step, the act was met with mixed reactions. Some viewed it as an affirmation of their rights and inclusion in the American polity.

Others saw it as another attempt to erode tribal sovereignty by dissolving the distinct political status of Native peoples.

Regardless of the varied perspectives, the Indian Citizenship Act marked a turning point in the relationship between the U.S. government and Native American tribes. It formally recognized Native Americans as citizens of the United States, while simultaneously raising questions about the preservation of tribal sovereignty and cultural identity.

The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 and Tribal Self-Government

The Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) of 1934, also known as the Wheeler-Howard Act, represented a significant shift in federal Indian policy. It aimed to reverse the detrimental effects of allotment and assimilation by promoting tribal self-government and economic development.

The IRA provided tribes with the opportunity to adopt constitutions and establish their own governments, thereby regaining control over their internal affairs. It also facilitated the consolidation of tribal lands and provided access to federal resources for economic development projects.

For the Cherokee Nation, the IRA offered a pathway to rebuild their governance structures and strengthen their sovereignty. By adopting a new constitution and establishing a tribal government, the Cherokee people were able to exercise greater control over their resources, education, and other essential services.

The Self-Determination Era: Expanding Tribal Autonomy

The latter half of the 20th century witnessed the rise of the Self-Determination Era, characterized by increasing tribal autonomy and control over their own affairs. This era was marked by landmark legislation, such as the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975, which allowed tribes to contract with the federal government to administer programs and services previously managed by federal agencies.

Through self-determination, the Cherokee Nation gained greater flexibility in designing and implementing programs that met the specific needs of their community. This included initiatives in education, healthcare, economic development, and cultural preservation.

Sustaining and Reinvigorating Cherokee Culture

Alongside political and economic empowerment, the 20th century witnessed a renewed focus on maintaining and revitalizing Cherokee culture. Recognizing the importance of preserving their language, traditions, and heritage, the Cherokee Nation embarked on ambitious cultural revitalization programs.

Language immersion programs were established to teach the Cherokee language to younger generations. Cultural centers were created to showcase traditional arts, crafts, and ceremonies. Efforts were also made to document and preserve Cherokee history and oral traditions.

These initiatives played a crucial role in fostering a sense of identity and pride among Cherokee citizens, ensuring that their unique cultural heritage would be passed on to future generations.

The Cherokee Nation Government: Structure and Functions

The Cherokee Nation's government is structured around a separation of powers, with executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The Principal Chief serves as the head of the executive branch, responsible for implementing tribal laws and policies.

The Tribal Council, composed of elected representatives from various districts, serves as the legislative branch, responsible for enacting laws and appropriating funds. The Judicial Appeals Tribunal is the highest court of the Cherokee Nation. It is responsible for interpreting tribal laws and resolving disputes.

This system of governance allows the Cherokee Nation to exercise its sovereignty and manage its internal affairs in a manner consistent with its cultural values and traditions.

Wilma Mankiller: A Transformational Leader

A pivotal figure in the Cherokee Nation's modern history is Wilma Mankiller, the first woman to serve as Principal Chief. Elected in 1985, Mankiller brought a new vision and energy to the leadership of the Cherokee Nation.

She championed initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic development, transforming the lives of countless Cherokee citizens. Her leadership inspired a new generation of Cherokee women to pursue their dreams and contribute to the betterment of their community.

Wilma Mankiller's legacy extends far beyond her tenure as Principal Chief. She became a symbol of hope and empowerment for Native American women across the nation, demonstrating the power of leadership and the importance of preserving cultural identity.

Contemporary Cherokee Nation: Three Federally Recognized Tribes

As the Cherokee Nation moved into the 20th century, the landscape of Indigenous affairs in the United States began to shift, albeit gradually. The policies of assimilation, which had dominated the previous decades, started to face increasing scrutiny, paving the way for new legislative measures that recognized tribal sovereignty and self-determination. This evolving context has led to the contemporary reality of the Cherokee Nation, comprised of three federally recognized tribes, each with distinct histories, governance structures, and priorities.

The Cherokee Nation (Oklahoma)

The Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma represents the largest of the three federally recognized Cherokee tribes. Its history is deeply intertwined with the forced removal and the Trail of Tears.

Today, the Cherokee Nation boasts a comprehensive government, offering a wide array of services to its citizens, including healthcare, education, housing, and economic development initiatives. The tribe operates under a constitution ratified in 1976, which provides for an elected Principal Chief, Deputy Principal Chief, and a Tribal Council.

The Cherokee Nation has actively pursued economic diversification, establishing successful businesses in various sectors, including gaming, tourism, and manufacturing. These ventures provide crucial revenue that supports tribal programs and services.

The Nation is a significant political and economic force in Oklahoma.

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (North Carolina)

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) is comprised of descendants of Cherokee people who evaded or resisted forced removal in the 1830s. They maintain a sovereign nation within their ancestral homelands in western North Carolina.

The EBCI's seat of government is in Cherokee, North Carolina, and they operate under a constitution adopted in 1986. The tribe is governed by an elected Principal Chief, Vice Chief, and Tribal Council.

Tourism is a significant economic driver for the EBCI, with many visitors drawn to the area to experience Cherokee culture and history. Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort is a major source of revenue for the tribe.

The EBCI prioritizes cultural preservation, operating a museum, cultural center, and language revitalization programs to ensure the survival of Cherokee traditions. They are committed to preserving the unique heritage of the Cherokee people who remained in their ancestral lands.

The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (Oklahoma)

The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (UKB) is another federally recognized Cherokee tribe based in Oklahoma. The UKB is distinguished by its commitment to preserving traditional Keetoowah Cherokee culture, language, and spiritual practices.

The UKB emphasizes traditional forms of governance and adheres to the Keetoowah Code, which outlines the principles and values that guide the tribe. The UKB promotes Cherokee language instruction, traditional arts and crafts, and cultural events that reinforce Keetoowah identity.

The tribe operates various programs to support its citizens, including housing assistance, educational opportunities, and social services. The UKB serves as a vital reminder of the importance of cultural continuity and the enduring strength of traditional Cherokee values.

Federal Indian Law and the Supreme Court

Federal Indian Law governs the relationship between the U.S. government and Native American tribes. It is a complex body of law shaped by treaties, statutes, executive orders, and court decisions.

The Supreme Court of the United States has played a significant role in defining the scope of tribal sovereignty and land rights. Landmark cases such as Worcester v. Georgia (1832) and more recent decisions have had a profound impact on the legal status of Cherokee tribes.

The Supreme Court continues to shape the interpretation and application of Federal Indian Law, impacting the ability of Cherokee tribes to exercise self-governance, protect their resources, and preserve their cultural heritage. The legal landscape remains a critical area of focus for the Cherokee Nation as they navigate their relationship with the U.S. government.

Key Concepts: Sovereignty, Assimilation, and Cultural Preservation

[Contemporary Cherokee Nation: Three Federally Recognized Tribes As the Cherokee Nation moved into the 20th century, the landscape of Indigenous affairs in the United States began to shift, albeit gradually. The policies of assimilation, which had dominated the previous decades, started to face increasing scrutiny, paving the way for new legislative...] This section delves into the complex interplay of sovereignty, assimilation, and cultural preservation, fundamental concepts for understanding the Cherokee experience. Examining these interwoven themes provides crucial context for appreciating the challenges and triumphs of the Cherokee Nation throughout history and into the present day.

Sovereignty: The Inherent Right of Self-Governance

Sovereignty, in the context of the Cherokee Nation, refers to the inherent right of the Cherokee people to govern themselves, determine their own laws, and control their own territory. This right predates the arrival of European colonizers and is not a grant from any external power.

It is a fundamental principle rooted in the Cherokee Nation's existence as a distinct and self-determining political entity.

The concept of tribal sovereignty has been continually tested and redefined through interactions with the United States government. Treaties, court decisions, and federal legislation have all played a role in shaping the boundaries and limitations of Cherokee sovereignty.

However, the core principle remains: that the Cherokee Nation possesses an inherent right to self-governance.

Assimilation: A History of Forced Cultural Change

Assimilation refers to the policies and practices aimed at integrating the Cherokee people into mainstream American society, often at the expense of their own culture and traditions. Historically, assimilation efforts have ranged from encouraging adoption of European customs to the outright suppression of Cherokee language and spiritual practices.

The most egregious example of assimilation policies is the establishment and operation of boarding schools.

These institutions forcibly removed Cherokee children from their families, prohibited them from speaking their native language, and subjected them to intense cultural indoctrination.

The long-term effects of these assimilation policies have been profound, contributing to the loss of language fluency, cultural knowledge, and intergenerational trauma.

Cultural Preservation: Protecting Cherokee Identity

In the face of assimilation, the Cherokee people have consistently demonstrated a remarkable commitment to cultural preservation. This involves actively protecting and revitalizing Cherokee language, traditions, ceremonies, and artistic expressions.

Language Revitalization

Language preservation is a cornerstone of cultural survival. The Cherokee Nation has implemented various programs to promote language fluency, including language immersion schools, adult language classes, and online resources.

These efforts are vital for ensuring that the Cherokee language continues to be spoken and passed down to future generations.

Protecting Cultural Heritage

Beyond language, cultural preservation encompasses a wide range of activities.

These include maintaining traditional crafts, celebrating Cherokee ceremonies, and preserving historical sites. The Cherokee Nation actively works to protect its cultural heritage from external threats and to promote its cultural richness to the wider world.

Treaties: A Shifting Landscape of Rights and Recognition

Treaties between the Cherokee Nation and the United States government represent a complex and often fraught history of negotiation, broken promises, and legal disputes.

Initially, treaties were intended to establish peaceful relations and define territorial boundaries.

However, over time, the United States frequently used treaties as instruments to acquire Cherokee land and erode tribal sovereignty. Despite this history, treaties remain significant legal documents.

They acknowledge the Cherokee Nation as a distinct political entity.

They also serve as the basis for ongoing legal claims and negotiations regarding land rights, resource management, and self-governance.

The interpretation and enforcement of these treaties continue to be a crucial aspect of the relationship between the Cherokee Nation and the United States.

So, when you think about the Cherokee Tribe, remember it's not just about history books. Their story, etched with resilience and innovation, continues to shape us. From legal battles fought that still echo in tribal sovereignty today to the lasting influence on language, art, and even environmental stewardship, the long-term impacts of the Cherokee Tribe are woven into the fabric of America. It's a legacy worth understanding and respecting.