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The Cherokee: America’s Largest Native American Tribe
The Cherokee, descended from the Iroquoian-speaking peoples, are the most populous Native American tribe in the United States. With a rich culture and a storied history, the Cherokee have left an indelible mark on American history and continue to play a vital role in society today.
Origins and Early History
The Cherokee originated in the Great Lakes region around the 12th century. They migrated south to the Appalachian Mountains, establishing settlements in what is now Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama.
Language and Culture
The Cherokee language is one of the few Native American languages that has a written form. Sequoyah, a Cherokee silversmith, invented the Cherokee alphabet in the early 19th century, which revolutionized communication and facilitated the preservation of Cherokee culture.
Cherokee Society
Cherokee society was organized into seven clans: Wolf, Bear, Bird, Deer, Paint, Long Hair, and Blue. Leadership was vested in a council of chiefs and a principal chief. Women held important roles in Cherokee society, managing the home and participating in civic affairs.
European Contact and Warfare
The arrival of European settlers in the 16th century marked a tumultuous period for the Cherokee. They traded with the British and French, but also faced conflict with westward-expanding colonists. In the Revolutionary War, the Cherokee allied with the British, leading to a bloody frontier war.
Removal and the Trail of Tears
In the early 19th century, the United States government pressured the Cherokee to cede their lands east of the Mississippi River. The Indian Removal Act of 1830 forced over 16,000 Cherokee to relocate west along the Trail of Tears, a harrowing journey that resulted in the death of thousands.
The Young Deer Movement
In the mid-19th century, the Cherokee experienced a cultural revival led by young leaders known as the Young Deer Movement. They promoted Cherokee sovereignty, education, and cultural preservation.
Modern-Day Cherokee
Today, the Cherokee Nation is a federally recognized tribe with over 300,000 enrolled members. They have established numerous businesses, schools, and cultural institutions, and continue to preserve and promote their traditions.
Cherokee Arts and Crafts
Cherokee artisans are renowned for their exquisite crafts, including pottery, basketry, and beadwork. Their creations are sold at numerous galleries and festivals, and represent a vibrant expression of Cherokee culture.
Cherokee Medicine
Traditional Cherokee medicine relies on the healing properties of plants, herbs, and spiritual rituals. Cherokee healers have played a vital role in maintaining the health and well-being of their communities.
Cherokee Oral Tradition
Cherokee oral tradition is a rich source of myths, legends, and stories that have been passed down through generations. Storytellers play an important role in preserving Cherokee history and culture.
Cherokee Festivals
The Cherokee hold several annual festivals, including the Green Corn Ceremony, which celebrates the harvest and community unity. These festivals are an opportunity to experience Cherokee culture and traditions firsthand.
Cherokee Sovereignty
The Cherokee Nation maintains a unique government-to-government relationship with the United States government. They have established their own constitution, laws, and courts, and continue to advocate for their sovereignty and self-determination.
Conclusion
The Cherokee are a resilient and vibrant people with a rich history and culture. From their origins in the Great Lakes region to their modern-day resurgence, the Cherokee have played a significant role in shaping American history. Their legacy continues to inspire and enrich our nation.
FAQs
- How many Cherokee people are there today?
- Over 300,000 enrolled members
- What is the Cherokee language?
- An Iroquoian language with a written form invented by Sequoyah
- What was the significance of the Trail of Tears?
- A forced relocation of 16,000 Cherokee west of the Mississippi River
- What is the Young Deer Movement?
- A 19th-century cultural revival movement among Cherokee youth
- What are some famous Cherokee crafts?
- Pottery, basketry, and beadwork