Established with a noble dedication to preserving their rich cultural legacy while simultaneously moving towards a future of health, happiness, and prosperity, the Cherokee Nation is a stunning tapestry of history, heritage, and success. Home to over 360,000 tribal citizens, the 7,000-mile area of Northeastern Oklahoma hosts the largest tribe in the United States: The Cherokees.
In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of the Cherokee Nation, from its cultural and spiritual practices to the challenges of conquest, displacement, and survival, finishing with the enormous strides this resilient nation has made towards the modernisation and social-economic advancement in the world today.
Cherokee Nation’s Heritage and Culture
There is a rich tapestry of unique customs, arts, and practices that are woven into the fabric of the Cherokee Nation. Cherokee culture was shaped by a reverence for nature and an understanding of their purpose and place within it. This belief system was reflected in every aspect of their lives, from ceremonies to arts, crafts, and food.
They were divided into seven clans, each with their distinct ways of life and laws. This seven-clan system is still recognized in the Cherokee Nation today and remains an essential aspect of their identity. The seven Cherokee clans are Ani-Wodi (Paint Clan), Ani-kawi (Deer Clan), Ani-Tsiskwa (Bird Clan), Ani-Sawi (Raccoon Clan), Ani-Gilohi (Long Hair Clan), Ani-Kawi (Deer Clan) and Ani-Yvwiya (Wolf Clan)[^1^].
Cherokee Nation’s Challenges and Survival
The 19th-century brought drastic changes for the Cherokee Nation. Despite being recognized as one of the “Five Civilized Tribes” due to their adoption of colonial customs, the Cherokee Nation wasn’t spared from displacement during the era of Indian Removal. The 1830 Indian Removal Act forced the Cherokee Nation off their land, culminating in the infamous ‘Trail of Tears,’ a mass relocation journey marked by death and disease, where around 4,000 Cherokees succumbed[^2^]. This grim moment in history is an integral part of Cherokee identity and memory, serving as a brutal reminder of their resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
Cherokee Nation Today: Progress and Modernization
The Cherokee Nation has demonstrated unquestionable tenacity and resolve, managing to not only survive but thrive despite a history marked by hardships. Today, the Cherokee Nation is a self-governing body that operates under a constitutional government comprising executive, legislative, and judicial branches. It provides critical services in healthcare, education, housing, and economic development to its citizens.
Economic progress is one of the Cherokee Nation’s remarkable achievements in modern times. Cherokee Nation Businesses (CNB), a holding company owned by the Cherokee Nation, operates companies in diverse fields such as gaming and hospitality, aerospace, defense, manufacturing, health care, technology, and real estate. In 2018, CNB’s operations exceeded a billion dollars in revenue. These revenues are used to fund essential services, create jobs, develop infrastructure, and foster economic growth in the Cherokee Nation.
Conclusion
The Cherokee Nation is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of indigenous communities. Their rich culture and indomitable spirit represent a beacon of hope and strength for tribes globally, demonstrating that despite numerous adversities, it’s possible to retain one’s cultural heritage within the contemporary world framework.
From their roots in Southeast America, through the devastation of the ‘Trail of Tears’ to the blooming success of the modern-day Cherokee Nation, the Cherokee people have continually demonstrated their faithfulness to their heritage and their eagerness to embrace progress. Their inspiring journey is a fascinating study of determination, resilience, and revival.
References
[^1^]: McLoughlin, W.G. (1996). Cherokee Renascence in the New Republic. Princeton: Princeton University Press. ISBN 0-691-02537-7.
[^2^]: Thornton, Russell. (1991). The Cherokees: A Population History. Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press. ISBN 0-8032-9418-2.