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The Cherokee Tapestry

Weaving History, Culture, and Resilience: An exploration of the Indigenous people of the Southeastern Woodlands.

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Origins

Theories of Origin

Scholarly discourse presents two primary hypotheses regarding the origins of the Cherokee people. One posits a migration from the Great Lakes region, aligning with their Iroquoian linguistic roots. The alternative theory suggests the Cherokee have inhabited the Southeastern Appalachian region for millennia, with proto-Iroquoian developing locally. Linguistic analysis indicates a significant divergence from northern Iroquoian languages, suggesting a long period of separation, potentially dating back 3,500–3,800 years.

Early Cultural Development

Archaeological evidence points to ancestral Cherokee populations being associated with the Middle Woodland period (circa 200-600 CE) in Western North Carolina. Later, they are linked to the Pisgah phase of the South Appalachian Mississippian culture (circa 1000-1500 CE). These periods are characterized by the construction of earthwork platform mounds and the development of complex chiefdoms, reflecting sophisticated societal organization and agricultural practices, particularly the cultivation of maize.

Linguistic Connections

The Cherokee language belongs to the Iroquoian language family, a distinct characteristic among the Indigenous peoples of the American Southeast. This linguistic affiliation supports theories of ancient migration from northern territories historically associated with other Iroquoian-speaking groups. The language itself is polysynthetic, allowing for the formation of complex words to describe new concepts.

Historical Trajectory

Early European Contact and Relations

Initial interactions with Europeans, beginning in the 16th century with the Spanish expeditions, marked the start of significant historical shifts. By the 17th century, trade relations were established with English colonists in Virginia. The 18th century saw complex alliances and conflicts, including participation in the Tuscarora War and the Yamasee War, alongside the development of the deerskin trade. Epidemics, such as smallpox in 1738-39, drastically reduced the Cherokee population.

Displacement and Resilience

The 19th century was defined by increasing pressure from American expansionism, leading to forced removal policies. Despite legal challenges and appeals to the U.S. Supreme Court, the Cherokee were subjected to the devastating Trail of Tears. Internal divisions arose between those who advocated for adaptation and removal (the Treaty Party) and those who resisted (the Ross Party). The Civil War further fractured the nation, with Cherokee aligning on both Union and Confederate sides.

Post-Removal and Modern Era

Following the Civil War, treaties mandated the emancipation of Cherokee slaves and granted citizenship to Freedmen. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the dissolution of tribal governments under federal policies like the Dawes Act, culminating in Oklahoma's statehood. Despite these challenges, the Cherokee people have maintained their identity, revitalized their governance, and continue to assert their sovereignty and cultural heritage.

Language and Writing

The Cherokee Syllabary

A pivotal development in Cherokee cultural preservation was the invention of a unique syllabary by Sequoyah in the 1810s. This writing system, adapted to the polysynthetic nature of the Cherokee language, facilitated widespread literacy and the dissemination of information, including the publication of the "Cherokee Phoenix," the first American Indian newspaper.

Linguistic Adaptability

The Cherokee language demonstrates remarkable adaptability, incorporating new concepts through word formation and borrowing from other languages, including English. Its polysynthetic structure allows for the creation of descriptive terms for modern phenomena, such as "attorney" or "policeman," reflecting the dynamic nature of language in contemporary society.

Cultural Fabric

Spirituality and Traditions

Cherokee spirituality traditionally recognizes two fundamental forces: "red," associated with war, success, and youth, and "white," linked to peace, introspection, and age. These dualities influence various aspects of cultural practice and belief systems.

Gender Roles and Society

Historically, Cherokee society was matrilineal and matrifocal, with women holding significant roles in household ownership, agriculture, and clan leadership. While European-American influence led to a shift towards more patriarchal structures, women have historically been, and continue to be, revered as life-givers and keepers of tradition.

Economic and Artistic Contributions

Institutions like the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, founded in 1946, highlight the enduring artistic traditions of the Cherokee people. Museums and cultural centers further preserve and promote Cherokee heritage, while contemporary economic endeavors, such as those undertaken by the Cherokee Nation, contribute significantly to regional development.

Governance and Sovereignty

Evolution of Governance

The Cherokee have a long history of evolving governance structures, adapting from traditional clan systems to adopting a representative democracy modeled after the United States. Key milestones include the establishment of the Cherokee National Council, a national police force (Lighthorse Guard), courts, and ultimately, written constitutions for various Cherokee entities.

Treaties and Federal Relations

Over centuries, the Cherokee have engaged in numerous treaties with the U.S. government, shaping their legal and political relationship. These agreements, often contentious and subject to interpretation, have profoundly influenced land rights, sovereignty, and tribal status.

Modern Tribal Governance

Today, three federally recognized Cherokee tribes—the Cherokee Nation, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians—maintain distinct governments. These entities operate under their own constitutions, manage tribal lands, and provide services to their citizens, navigating complex relationships with state and federal governments.

Contemporary Tribes

Cherokee Nation (Oklahoma)

The Cherokee Nation, headquartered in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, is the largest federally recognized tribe in the United States, with over 300,000 enrolled citizens. It boasts significant economic interests, extensive health and education programs, and actively promotes Cherokee language and culture.

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (North Carolina)

Located on the Qualla Boundary in Western North Carolina, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians comprises descendants of those who avoided the Trail of Tears. This sovereign nation attracts over a million visitors annually to its cultural attractions and economic enterprises.

United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (Oklahoma)

The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians, primarily based in Oklahoma, formed its government under the Indian Reorganization Act. Many of its members are descendants of the "Old Settlers" who relocated prior to the Trail of Tears, and the tribe maintains its own economic and cultural initiatives.

Membership and Citizenship

Enrollment Criteria

Enrollment requirements vary among the three federally recognized Cherokee tribes. The Cherokee Nation bases citizenship on lineal descent from individuals listed on the Dawes Rolls, without a minimum blood quantum requirement. The Eastern Band requires a minimum of one-sixteenth Cherokee blood quantum and an ancestor on the Baker Roll, while the United Keetoowah Band mandates a minimum of one-quarter Keetoowah Cherokee blood quantum.

Citizenship Controversies

Discussions surrounding tribal recognition and citizenship have been complex, particularly concerning descendants of Cherokee Freedmen and individuals with mixed ancestry. Legal interpretations and tribal constitutional amendments have shaped eligibility, reflecting ongoing dialogues about identity and belonging within the Cherokee Nation.

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References

References

  1.  Charles A. Hanna, The Wilderness Trail, (New York: 1911). This was chronicled by de Soto's expedition as Chalaque.
  2.  Or Achalaque.[27]
  3.  Mooney, James. History, Myths, and Scared Formulas of the Cherokee, p. 83. (Washington: Government Printing Office, 1900).
  4.  Treaties; Tennessee Encyclopedia, online; accessed October 2019
  5.  "Tsali." History and culture of the Cherokee (North Carolina Indians). (March 10, 2007)
  6.  "Will Thomas." History and culture of the Cherokee (North Carolina Indians). (March 10, 2007)
  7.  "OICA is gone, but not really", The One Feather (retrieved March 18, 2013)
  8.  Russell (2002) p. 70. Ray (2007) p. 423, says that the peak of enslavement of Native Americans was between 1715 and 1717; it ended after the Revolutionary War.
  9.  Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc., Smoky Mountain Host of North Carolina (retrieved July 1, 2014)
A full list of references for this article are available at the Cherokee Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This content has been generated by an AI, drawing upon publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the provided source material, it is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The information presented here is not a substitute for professional historical, cultural, or anthropological consultation. Users are encouraged to consult primary sources and expert analyses for comprehensive understanding.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding Indigenous history, culture, or legal matters. Always seek the advice of qualified professionals for specific inquiries.

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