The Heritage of the Cherokee Tribes

David John Sam
Oct 13, 2024By David John Sam

Origin

The Cherokee tribes migrated to South East United States about 1000 years before the arrival of Europeans. They settled in present day Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. By the time of European arrival, they became one of the most eminent tribes in the region.

Cherokee Nation: Image curtesy of National Museum of American Indian 

Cultural Traditions

The Cherokee society highly respects women and crucial to decision making. Cherokee society is matrilineal where inheritance is passed down through the mother. Men are responsible for warfare and hunting, agriculture, and gathering. Tasks are given based on age and gender. 

They intertwine their lives with the nature. They have a rich artistic background with pottery making, beadwork, and basket weaving. They also love music and dancing and utilize it in their ceremonies. To honor nature, organisms, and their ancestors, the Cherokee have a special dance called "The Stomp Dance".


Prehistoric wall painting in cave Magura, Bulgaria
Cherokee Art: Image curtesy of wikipedia

The Trail of Tears

The Trail of Tears is one of the most well known facts in Native American history where the Cherokee were forced to leave their land in the 1830s. This trail was immensely dangerous where thousands died. They moved to Oklahoma, where they rebult their cultrue. 

Trail of Tears: Image curtesy of History.com

Contributions to Society

The Cherokee have contributed greatly to present day society. To name a few, they have influenced southern cuisine through the growth practices of stable crops such as corn. In addition, the Cherokee goverment system has been influential on modern politics and legal thought. The Cherokee warriors fought with American soldiers for this nation. They are an integral component of this nation and of its history.

Preserving Cherokee Heritage

The Cherokee culture has become one of the most influential among the indigenous tribes. The culture has been preserved through landmarks, oral stories, and education. Tsalagi, the Cherokee language, is preserved through educational programs and by passing the language down to Cherokee tribe children to keep the language preserved through generations. 

Cherokee Heritage Center at Tahlequah, Oklahoma

Conclusion

The Cherokee tribes are a key component of our nation's history, and their story is one of adaptability and resilience. Their history is fascinating and one that has shaped the course of this nation.