Chakchiuma

Chakchiuma Indians

The Chakchiuma tribe, meaning “Red Crawfish People” in their proper dialect, were closely related to the Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes and inhabited areas along the Yalobusha River in the 18th century. Their history includes a tumultuous relationship with the Spanish and French, leading to their decline and eventual absorption into neighboring tribes. Estimates of their population varied, with significant reductions recorded from around 1,200 in 1650 to just 150 by 1722, reflecting the impacts of conflict and alliances in the region.

Chakchiuma Tribe

The Chakchiuma Tribe, a group speaking a Choctaw-Chickasaw dialect, inhabited the Yazoo River region in Mississippi, noted as a populous Yazoo tribe around 1699. They were significant during De Soto’s expedition and maintained a fortified town. In the 18th century, they became part of the Chickasaw confederacy, known for their warrior culture. Tradition suggests their migration east to the Mississippi alongside the Choctaw and Chickasaw, ultimately settling along the Tallahatchie. By the 18th century, they lived in about 50 huts along the Yazoo River.