Cherokee Impact: Long-Term Legacy & Lasting Effects

The Cherokee Nation's historical resilience significantly shaped the cultural and political landscape of the Southeastern United States. The Cherokee people, an Indigenous group, developed a sophisticated system of governance that has influenced modern tribal sovereignty movements. The Trail of Tears, a forced removal orchestrated by the United States government, had a devastating and permanent effect on the Cherokee population and their ancestral lands. Sequoyah's creation of the Cherokee syllabary in the early 19th century facilitated literacy and preserved the Cherokee language, raising the critical question of what are some long term impact of the Cherokee tribe in terms of cultural preservation and identity.

An Enduring Nation: The Cherokee Story

The Cherokee Nation stands as a testament to resilience and cultural perseverance in the face of immense historical challenges. From its ancestral homelands in the Southeastern United States to its present-day base in Oklahoma, the Cherokee Nation's story is a vital thread in the tapestry of American history.

This introduction sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the Cherokee journey, one marked by both profound loss and unwavering determination.

Defining the Cherokee Nation

Today, the Cherokee Nation is a federally recognized tribe with its capital in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. While its primary geographical presence is centered in Oklahoma, the Cherokee people's historical reach and cultural influence extend far beyond these boundaries.

The Cherokee Nation is not merely a demographic group but a distinct sovereign entity with its own government, laws, and cultural traditions. Understanding this sovereignty is key to understanding the Cherokee experience.

Sovereignty and Self-Determination

The story of the Cherokee Nation is fundamentally intertwined with the concept of sovereignty.

From its earliest interactions with European colonizers to the present day, the Cherokee people have consistently asserted their right to self-governance and cultural autonomy. This pursuit of sovereignty is a central theme that runs throughout their history.

Cultural Preservation and Resilience

Alongside sovereignty, cultural preservation and resilience are equally important themes to consider.

Despite facing systemic attempts at forced assimilation and cultural erasure, the Cherokee Nation has managed to maintain its unique cultural identity. This preservation is evident in the survival of the Cherokee language, the continuation of traditional ceremonies, and the vibrant artistic expressions of the Cherokee people.

Exploring Key Themes

Our exploration of the Cherokee Nation's history will focus on several key themes:

• The persistent struggle for sovereignty.
• The ongoing efforts at cultural preservation.
• The unwavering commitment to self-determination.
• The remarkable capacity for resilience in the face of adversity.

Thesis Statement: A Nation's Enduring Spirit

From Sequoyah's creation of the Cherokee Syllabary, a groundbreaking achievement that fostered literacy and cultural unity, to modern strides in self-governance, the Cherokee Nation's history embodies a persistent struggle for sovereignty amid external challenges like forced assimilation and removal.

This narrative will unpack that struggle and highlight the ways in which the Cherokee spirit has not only survived but thrived.

Forging a Nation: Early History and Cultural Identity

The early history of the Cherokee Nation is a compelling narrative of innovation, adaptation, and the forging of a distinct national identity. The Cherokee people, facing increasing pressures from European settlers and the burgeoning United States, embarked on a path of self-determination that would shape their future. This period is marked by transformative developments, including the creation of the Cherokee Syllabary, the rise of a centralized government, and complex interactions with external powers, all interwoven with the influence of Christian missionaries.

Sequoyah's Gift: The Cherokee Syllabary

Perhaps the most remarkable achievement of this era was Sequoyah's invention of the Cherokee Syllabary. Prior to this, the Cherokee language was solely oral. Sequoyah's creation of a writing system revolutionized Cherokee society.

This wasn't just the creation of a tool for recording language, but it was an act of cultural empowerment. It allowed the Cherokee people to document their history, laws, and traditions.

Literacy rates soared, and the Syllabary became a powerful instrument for preserving Cherokee oral traditions.

It enabled the creation of written materials that would play a crucial role in unifying the nation.

The Cherokee Phoenix: A Voice for the Nation

The Cherokee Phoenix, established in 1828, was the first newspaper published by Native Americans in the United States. It served as a vital communication tool for the Cherokee Nation.

Printed in both Cherokee and English, the Phoenix fostered a sense of national consciousness by disseminating information about Cherokee laws, government policies, and cultural events.

It also served as a platform to articulate Cherokee perspectives on issues of sovereignty, land rights, and relations with the United States.

The Cherokee Phoenix played a crucial role in shaping public opinion both within the Cherokee Nation and among the broader American public.

Navigating a Shifting Landscape: Treaties and Tensions

Early interactions between the Cherokee Nation and European powers and the United States were characterized by a complex mix of diplomacy, trade, and conflict. Treaties were negotiated, alliances were forged, and land was ceded under duress.

As the United States expanded westward, tensions over land intensified. The Cherokee Nation, like many other tribes, found itself increasingly pressured to relinquish its ancestral territories.

Despite their efforts to assimilate and adopt aspects of Western culture, the Cherokee people faced persistent encroachment and discrimination.

The concept of private property, alien to Cherokee communal traditions, became a major point of contention in negotiations.

The Ambivalent Influence of Christian Missions

Christian missionary organizations, such as the Brainerd Mission, established a presence in Cherokee territory during this period.

While these missions often provided valuable services such as education and healthcare, their influence was not without its drawbacks.

Missionaries aimed to convert Cherokee people to Christianity.

The missionaries also sought to "civilize" them by encouraging them to adopt Western customs and values.

While some Cherokee individuals embraced Christianity and Western education, others resisted what they perceived as a threat to their cultural identity. The missions' emphasis on individualism and private property often clashed with traditional Cherokee communal values. The goal of many missions was cultural assimilation, which resulted in cultural disruption.

The early history of the Cherokee Nation is a testament to the Cherokee people's ingenuity, adaptability, and resilience.

The Trail of Tears: Forced Removal and its Legacy

The period of forced removal casts a long, somber shadow over the history of the Cherokee Nation. This era, marked by the Indian Removal Act of 1830 and the subsequent Trail of Tears, represents a profound injustice and a stark betrayal of promises made to the Cherokee people. It is essential to understand the historical context, the key players, and the devastating consequences of this policy to fully grasp its lasting impact on the Cherokee Nation and the United States.

The Indian Removal Act of 1830: A Legal Framework for Dispossession

The Indian Removal Act, signed into law by President Andrew Jackson, provided the legal pretext for the forced displacement of numerous Native American tribes from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States. The Act authorized the President to negotiate treaties with tribes to exchange their eastern lands for lands west of the Mississippi River.

While seemingly framed as a voluntary exchange, the Act was implemented with coercion and duress. It empowered states to extend their laws over Native American territories, undermining tribal sovereignty and creating an environment of hostility and pressure. The underlying motivation was the insatiable desire for land to accommodate the westward expansion of the United States and the cultivation of cotton.

The Act reflected a prevailing attitude of racial superiority and disregard for Native American rights. It laid the foundation for the systematic dispossession of the Cherokee and other tribes, setting the stage for the tragedy that would become known as the Trail of Tears.

Key Figures in the Removal Debate: Conflicting Visions

The removal debate was characterized by deeply contrasting viewpoints and competing interests within the Cherokee Nation. Two prominent figures, John Ross and Elias Boudinot (Galagina Oowatie), represented opposing factions with significantly different ideas.

John Ross: A Leader of Resistance

John Ross, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, tirelessly resisted removal. He advocated for Cherokee sovereignty and sought to protect tribal lands through legal and political means.

Ross believed that the Cherokee Nation could maintain its independence by adapting to Western culture while retaining its distinct identity. He led delegations to Washington, D.C., to appeal to the U.S. government and garner support for the Cherokee cause.

Ross's unwavering commitment to resisting removal made him a symbol of Cherokee resilience and a central figure in the fight for justice.

Elias Boudinot and the Treaty of New Echota

Elias Boudinot, along with Major Ridge and other members of the Treaty Party, believed that removal was inevitable and that negotiating a treaty was the only way to secure the best possible terms for the Cherokee people. In 1835, they signed the Treaty of New Echota with the U.S. government, ceding all Cherokee lands east of the Mississippi River in exchange for land in Indian Territory and financial compensation.

This treaty was highly controversial, as it was signed by a minority faction without the authorization of the Cherokee National Council or the consent of the majority of the Cherokee people. John Ross and most of the Cherokee Nation vehemently opposed the treaty, denouncing it as illegitimate and fraudulent.

The Treaty of New Echota remains a deeply divisive issue in Cherokee history, with some viewing Boudinot and the Treaty Party as pragmatists who acted in the best interests of their people under impossible circumstances, while others condemn them as traitors who betrayed the Cherokee Nation for personal gain.

The Trail of Tears: A Journey of Suffering and Loss

Despite the Cherokee Nation's protests and legal challenges, the U.S. government enforced the Treaty of New Echota. In 1838, the U.S. Army, under the command of General Winfield Scott, forcibly removed the Cherokee people from their homes in Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama.

The Cherokee were rounded up at gunpoint, forced into stockades, and then marched westward under brutal conditions. They were given little time to gather their belongings and were subjected to disease, starvation, and exposure to the elements.

This tragic journey, known as the Trail of Tears (Nunna daul Isunyi in Cherokee), resulted in the deaths of thousands of Cherokee men, women, and children. The exact number of casualties is unknown, but estimates range from 4,000 to 6,000.

First-hand accounts from Cherokee survivors paint a harrowing picture of the suffering endured during the removal. Families were separated, homes were looted and burned, and graves were desecrated. The Trail of Tears represents a profound loss of life, culture, and ancestral heritage.

Establishing a New Homeland in Indian Territory

After enduring the horrors of the Trail of Tears, the surviving members of the Cherokee Nation arrived in Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma). They faced the daunting task of rebuilding their nation in a new and unfamiliar environment.

The establishment of a new Cherokee homeland was marked by both resilience and internal strife. The Cherokee people worked to re-establish their government, schools, and cultural institutions. However, the divisions created by the Treaty of New Echota and the removal continued to plague the nation. The assassination of Elias Boudinot, Major Ridge, and other Treaty Party members in 1839 underscored the deep-seated animosity and the challenges of healing the wounds of the past.

Despite these challenges, the Cherokee Nation persevered. They established Tahlequah as their new capital and began the long process of rebuilding their lives and their nation in the West.

The Trail of Tears stands as a stark reminder of the injustices inflicted upon Native American tribes and the enduring legacy of forced removal. It is a story of suffering and loss, but also of resilience and determination. By understanding this history, we can honor the memory of those who perished and work towards a future of justice and reconciliation.

Rebuilding in the West: Re-establishment and Internal Strife

The arduous journey along the Trail of Tears concluded with the arrival of the Cherokee Nation in Indian Territory, a land promising refuge but fraught with new challenges. Re-establishing their nation required immense resilience, yet this process was immediately complicated by deep-seated internal divisions, exacerbated by the looming shadow of the American Civil War and later, the disruptive policies of the U.S. government.

Re-establishing the Nation in Indian Territory

Upon reaching Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma), the Cherokee Nation faced the daunting task of rebuilding their society from the ground up. Amidst the grief and trauma of the Trail of Tears, the Cherokee people demonstrated remarkable fortitude in reconstructing their government, institutions, and way of life.

The establishment of Tahlequah as the new capital symbolized this rebirth. Modeled after New Echota, it served as the center of Cherokee political and cultural life. The Cherokee quickly re-established their court system, schools, and newspaper, the Cherokee Advocate, all crucial for maintaining cultural continuity and self-governance.

Rebuilding efforts included the establishment of new farms and businesses to support the Cherokee economy. Despite the hardships, the Cherokee Nation sought to create a prosperous and self-sufficient community in their new homeland.

Internal Divisions and the Civil War

The relative peace of this new beginning was soon shattered by the outbreak of the American Civil War. The conflict exposed and deepened existing fractures within the Cherokee Nation, leading to a period of intense internal strife.

A key figure in this tumultuous period was Stand Watie, a prominent Cherokee leader who aligned himself and a significant portion of the Cherokee Nation with the Confederacy. Watie, a member of the Treaty Party, had long held different views from Principal Chief John Ross.

The reasons behind the Cherokee Nation's division were complex. Some Cherokee, including Watie, believed that aligning with the Confederacy offered the best chance to protect their lands and sovereignty, as they mistrusted the Union's intentions regarding Native American rights. Others, loyal to John Ross, initially favored neutrality but eventually sided with the Union after Confederate incursions into Indian Territory.

This internal conflict resulted in a devastating civil war within the Cherokee Nation, pitting Cherokee against Cherokee. The war further disrupted the rebuilding efforts and left deep scars that took years to heal. Stand Watie was the last Confederate general to surrender, underscoring the Cherokee Nation’s complicated, prolonged involvement in the Civil War.

The Dawes Act and the Loss of Communal Land

Following the Civil War, the U.S. government implemented policies aimed at further eroding tribal sovereignty and assimilating Native Americans into mainstream American society. The Dawes Act, also known as the General Allotment Act of 1887, stands as a stark example of this policy and had a profound impact on the Cherokee Nation.

The Dawes Commission and Land Allotment

The Dawes Act authorized the President to survey Native American tribal lands and divide them into individual allotments for Native American heads of families. The goal was to break up tribal land ownership and encourage individual farming, thereby assimilating Native Americans into the agrarian economy of the United States. The Dawes Commission was established to oversee this process, playing a central role in dismantling tribal land holdings.

Individuals such as Henry L. Dawes, for whom the Act was named, believed that private land ownership would encourage Native Americans to adopt "civilized" ways. However, this policy failed to consider the cultural and historical significance of communal land ownership to the Cherokee and other tribes.

Consequences for the Cherokee Nation

The Dawes Act had devastating consequences for the Cherokee Nation. The allotment process led to the loss of vast amounts of communal land, as the U.S. government declared any land remaining after allotment as "surplus" and opened it up to white settlers. This dramatically reduced the Cherokee Nation's land base and undermined its economic self-sufficiency.

The Act also disrupted Cherokee culture and social structures. The shift from communal land ownership to individual allotments undermined traditional Cherokee practices and weakened tribal bonds. Many Cherokee were ill-equipped to manage individual land holdings, leading to further land loss through sales and foreclosures.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs: A Paternalistic Hand

Concurrent with the Dawes Act, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) played an increasingly dominant role in administering tribal affairs. Established in 1824, the BIA's policies often reflected a paternalistic approach, seeking to control and regulate nearly every aspect of Cherokee life.

BIA Policies and Their Impact

The BIA implemented policies aimed at assimilating Native Americans, including the suppression of Cherokee language and cultural practices. Cherokee children were often forced to attend boarding schools where they were forbidden from speaking their native language and were indoctrinated with American values.

The BIA also exerted significant control over Cherokee government and economic development. Tribal decisions were subject to BIA approval, and the BIA often favored policies that benefited non-Native interests at the expense of the Cherokee Nation. This stifled Cherokee self-governance and hindered economic progress.

The legacy of the Dawes Act and the BIA's policies is one of dispossession, cultural disruption, and diminished sovereignty. These policies significantly weakened the Cherokee Nation and created lasting challenges that the Cherokee continue to address in their ongoing pursuit of self-determination.

The Modern Era: Sovereignty, Self-Determination, and Cultural Renaissance

The 20th and 21st centuries have witnessed a remarkable resurgence of the Cherokee Nation. This era is characterized by persistent efforts to reclaim sovereignty, exercise self-determination, and revitalize Cherokee culture in the face of ongoing challenges. Landmark legislation and influential leaders have played pivotal roles in this transformative period.

Reversing Course: The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934

The Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) of 1934 marked a significant departure from the assimilationist policies of the Dawes Act era. Recognizing the detrimental effects of land allotment, the IRA aimed to reverse this process and promote tribal self-governance.

It encouraged tribes to adopt constitutions and form their own governments, providing a framework for greater autonomy.

The IRA facilitated the restoration of some tribal lands and provided financial assistance for economic development. While its impact varied across different tribes, the IRA laid the groundwork for increased tribal sovereignty and self-determination.

Expanding Tribal Control: The Self-Determination Act of 1975

The Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975 represented a further step toward empowering tribal nations. This landmark legislation authorized the federal government to enter into contracts with tribes, allowing them to administer federal programs and services.

This shift in policy enabled the Cherokee Nation to exercise greater control over crucial areas such as education, healthcare, and social services.

By assuming responsibility for these programs, the Cherokee Nation could tailor them to the specific needs and cultural context of its community, enhancing their effectiveness and relevance.

Contemporary Challenges and Achievements

Despite legislative advancements, the Cherokee Nation continues to navigate a complex landscape of contemporary challenges and strive for further achievements.

The Legacy of Wilma Mankiller

Wilma Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, stands as an iconic figure in this era. Her leadership from 1985 to 1995 was marked by significant progress in strengthening tribal sovereignty and promoting cultural preservation.

Mankiller championed community development initiatives, improved healthcare access, and advocated for greater educational opportunities for Cherokee citizens.

Her vision and determination inspired a generation of Cherokee leaders and solidified her legacy as a transformative figure in Cherokee history.

Ongoing Efforts in Sovereignty and Self-Determination

The Cherokee Nation actively pursues initiatives to strengthen its sovereignty in various domains.

These efforts include asserting its jurisdiction over tribal lands, protecting its water rights, and exercising its inherent right to self-governance.

In the realm of education, the Cherokee Nation operates its own schools and language immersion programs, striving to preserve and revitalize the Cherokee language.

Healthcare initiatives focus on providing culturally sensitive care and addressing the unique health needs of the Cherokee population.

Economic development strategies aim to create sustainable economic opportunities for Cherokee citizens, fostering self-sufficiency and prosperity.

The Complexities of Federal Indian Law

Federal Indian Law, a complex body of statutes, treaties, and court decisions, significantly shapes the relationship between the U.S. government and tribal nations. Understanding Federal Indian Law is crucial for navigating issues related to tribal sovereignty, land rights, and resource management.

The Cherokee Nation must continuously engage with Federal Indian Law to protect its rights and interests, advocating for policies that support its self-determination goals.

Court cases and legislative actions can have a profound impact on the Cherokee Nation's ability to exercise its sovereignty and govern its own affairs.

The Cherokee Mosaic: Diverse Groups and Locations

The Cherokee Nation's story extends beyond the boundaries of the main tribal government in Oklahoma. Different Cherokee groups, each with unique histories and identities, contribute to the rich tapestry of Cherokee heritage.

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, located in Cherokee, North Carolina, represents a distinct chapter in Cherokee history. These are the descendants of those who resisted forced removal and remained in their ancestral homelands.

Their deep connection to the land and their resilience in the face of adversity have shaped their unique cultural identity.

The Eastern Band operates its own government, schools, and cultural institutions, preserving and promoting Cherokee traditions.

The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians

The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians is another federally recognized tribe committed to preserving traditional Cherokee culture and spirituality.

Their emphasis on traditional values and practices distinguishes them within the broader Cherokee community.

The Keetoowah Band actively promotes the Cherokee language, traditional ceremonies, and cultural education.

The Cherokee National Historical Society

The Cherokee National Historical Society plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Cherokee heritage. Through its museum, archives, and educational programs, the society ensures that Cherokee history and culture are accessible to future generations.

The society also supports research and scholarship on Cherokee history, contributing to a deeper understanding of the Cherokee experience.

By safeguarding cultural artifacts and sharing Cherokee stories, the Cherokee National Historical Society helps to maintain a strong sense of Cherokee identity and pride.

So, as you can see, the Cherokee's impact extends far beyond the history books. From their resilience and contributions to language and culture to their continued fight for sovereignty and self-determination, the long-term impact of the Cherokee tribe is undeniable. Their story is a reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of preserving cultural heritage for generations to come. It's a story worth remembering, and a legacy that continues to shape our world today.