Cherokee Nation

Definition

The Cherokee Nation is a Native American tribe originally from the southeastern United States, with a rich history and cultural heritage. Known for their sophisticated political system and written language, the Cherokee people faced immense challenges during the 19th century, particularly during the period of forced removal from their ancestral lands, most notably during the Trail of Tears. This forced migration significantly impacted their population and community structure, leading to long-term consequences for their identity and sovereignty.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Cherokee Nation developed a written constitution in 1827, establishing a government similar to that of the United States, with an executive, legislative, and judicial branch.
2. In 1838-1839, around 16,000 Cherokees were forcibly removed from their homes in what is now Georgia and relocated to present-day Oklahoma during the Trail of Tears, where approximately 4,000 died due to harsh conditions.
3. The Cherokees were among the first Native American tribes to adopt European-style agriculture and education, which included creating a syllabary developed by Sequoyah for their written language.
4. The legal battles of the Cherokee Nation culminated in the Supreme Court case Worcester v. Georgia (1832), where the Court ruled in favor of Cherokee sovereignty, although this decision was largely ignored by President Andrew Jackson.
5. Despite facing displacement and suffering, the Cherokee Nation has persevered and today is one of the largest tribes in the United States, with a strong cultural identity and active government.

Review Questions

• What were some significant features of the political system established by the Cherokee Nation before their forced removal?
  • The Cherokee Nation established a formal political system that included a written constitution in 1827, which laid out a framework similar to that of the U.S. government. It featured an executive branch led by a chief, a legislative council, and a judicial system. This sophisticated governance structure reflected their adaptation to American political practices and demonstrated their commitment to sovereignty and self-governance.
• How did the Trail of Tears illustrate the broader implications of the Indian Removal Act on Native American tribes?
  • The Trail of Tears exemplified the devastating consequences of the Indian Removal Act by showcasing how it led to the forced displacement of entire communities under brutal conditions. The act not only disregarded treaties made with Native tribes but also illustrated the federal government's prioritization of land acquisition for settlers over the rights and welfare of Native Americans. This mass relocation had lasting impacts on Cherokee culture and identity while emphasizing ongoing struggles for tribal sovereignty.
• Evaluate how the historical experiences of the Cherokee Nation during their forced removal have shaped contemporary discussions on Indigenous rights and sovereignty in America.
  • The historical experiences of the Cherokee Nation during their forced removal have significantly influenced contemporary discussions about Indigenous rights and sovereignty. The trauma of events like the Trail of Tears serves as a critical reminder of the systemic injustices faced by Native Americans throughout history. Today, these narratives highlight ongoing struggles for land rights, cultural preservation, and legal recognition within federal systems. The legacy of resilience among tribes like the Cherokee also fosters movements advocating for policy changes aimed at rectifying historical wrongs and ensuring tribal self-determination.

Related terms

Trail of Tears: The Trail of Tears refers to the forced relocation of the Cherokee Nation and other Native American tribes from their homelands to designated Indian Territory west of the Mississippi River, resulting in widespread suffering and loss of life.

Indian Removal Act: The Indian Removal Act was a law enacted in 1830 that authorized the federal government to negotiate treaties to remove Native American tribes from their lands in the eastern United States, facilitating westward expansion.

Sovereignty: Sovereignty refers to the authority of a state or tribe to govern itself and make decisions independently, which is a crucial aspect of Native American tribal governance and legal status.