Cherokee Topics – Page 3 of 53

Choctaw Nation and the Greer County Dispute

The dispute over Greer County involves the Attorney General of the United States challenging Texas’s claims based on the 1819 Adams-Onís Treaty, which established boundaries between the U.S. and Spain. Despite the treaty, Texas has asserted jurisdiction over the territory in violation of U.S. treaty rights. The case seeks judicial clarification of whether the disputed land falls under U.S. or Texas authority, emphasizing historical claims stemming from significant early treaties and ongoing tensions regarding territorial rights and ownership.

Choctaw Migration and Government

The name Choctaw stems from a legendary warrior-prophet who led a migration from the West, following neighboring tribes, to a new settlement known as Nun-nih Wai-ya. Upon settling, they established a government based on patriarchal and tribal structures, with laws reflecting their customs, including a simple criminal code. Leadership was held by the royal family and the oldest male relative, with justice administered through councils. Their governance lacked formal law enforcement, relying instead on the chief’s authority to maintain order.

Mound Builders

The post discusses the connection between ancient mounds in North America and the indigenous tribes, refuting the notion that these structures were built by a distinct race known as the Mound Builders. Evidence presented includes similarities in skull structure among various tribes and the fortified nature of their towns. Early European explorers observed these communities engaged in agriculture and crafting, challenging the idea of indigenous nomadism. The author argues that the mounds are the work of Native Americans, the true ancestors of today’s tribes, and emphasizes the importance of understanding their legacy.

Cherokee County Oklahoma Cemeteries

Prominent White Men among the Chickasaws

In the early days, a few cultured white men, drawn by the Chickasaw way of life, integrated into the nation. Notably, figures such as James Gunn, Logan Colbert, and Malcomb McGee became part of Chickasaw society, aiding in moral and educational advancements. Despite myths of a McIntosh, who was misrepresented as influential, the true contributions of these men remain significant. They sought genuine connections with the Chickasaws, contrasting sharply with later intruders motivated by avarice, casting a long shadow over indigenous relationships.

Chickasaw Religion

The Chickasaws, unlike the Choctaws, approached natural phenomena like eclipses rationally, viewing them as “sun hidden” rather than omens. Their history includes the notable town of Pakitakohlih, where De Soto’s army wintered in 1540. The Chickasaws fiercely defended their land against French incursions but eventually faced forced removal, leaving behind cherished memories of their homeland. Despite hardships, they maintained their spiritual beliefs and rebuilt their society, demonstrating resilience and determination. Nevertheless, their struggles intensified with further encroachments on their territory and autonomy.

Vaundreuil and the Chickasaws

On May 10, 1743, the Marquis of Vaudreuil assumed control of French Louisiana, rejecting peace proposals from the Chickasaws unless they expelled English traders and coordinated with the Choctaws. Despite their attempts for peace, Vaudreuil sought to incite hostilities between the Chickasaws and Choctaws, ultimately igniting a civil war. The Choctaws, influenced by French and English manipulation, faced devastating losses. By 1750, they accepted humiliating peace terms while the Chickasaws continued to resist, indicating the destructive impact of colonial rivalries on Indigenous peoples.

The Chickasaw War of 1739

The Chickasaw War of 1739 was fueled by French manipulations, leading to a prolonged conflict between the Chickasaws and the Choctaws, which had begun in 1737 without clear gains for either side. Bienville, determined to eradicate the Chickasaws after previous defeats, sought Choctaw support and managed to persuade many tribes to ally with the French. However, logistical failures and disease plagued the French campaign. Ultimately, peace was declared, with the Chickasaws maintaining their independence, despite ongoing tensions and hostilities instigated by the French.

Mission’s Among the Southern Indians

In 1819, the Synod of South Carolina initiated a mission among Southern Indians, focusing on the Chickasaws. Rev. David Humphries and Rev. T. C. Stewart initially sought permission to establish a mission, which was granted by the Chickasaw king in 1820. Stewart, the sole missionary, founded Monroe Station in 1821, accompanied by two families. This mission became a pivotal center for education and Christianity, significantly influencing the Chickasaw community, fostering future leaders and laying the groundwork for their ongoing civilization.

Lord Dunmore’s War

The text details the events leading to and during Lord Dunmore’s War, sparked by illegal encroachments into the Vandalia Colony and violent acts against Native Americans by Virginians. It highlights the treaties made with various tribes and the resultant loss of their lands. The war began in response to brutal murders committed by settlers, leading to conflict with the Shawnees. Despite military advances by Virginia’s forces, Dunmore ultimately sought peace, yet tensions persisted as violence against Native Americans continued unabated.

The Choctaw Claim

The Choctaw Nation has been actively monitoring the ongoing boundary dispute between Texas and the United States over Greer County, rooted in conflicting interpretations of the Red River’s location as per historical treaties. The Doaks Stand Treaty of 1820 ceded extensive lands to the Choctaws, including territories west of Arkansas. They argue that a 1855 cession did not include lands sold without their consent by the United States to Spain. As no boundary surveys have clarified the situation, the Choctaws have yet to assert their claims formally.

The Discovery Of This Continent: It’s Results To The Natives

In 1470, Christopher Columbus married Dona Felipa, daughter of a renowned navigator, and settled in Porto Santo, where they shared dreams of discovering lands to the West. Their ambitions fueled Columbus’s determination, leading to his 1492 voyage that resulted in the European discovery of the Americas. However, this event marked the beginning of devastation for native peoples, introducing warfare, disease, and colonization that would decimate their populations and cultures, ultimately transforming their rich, diverse societies into shadows of their former selves.

The Meeting in 1811 of Tecumseh and Apushamatahah

Peter Perkins Pitchlynn was the Choctaw Principal Chief from 1864-1866

In 1811, Tecumseh, the Shawnee leader, met with Apushamatahah, a prominent Choctaw chief, to rally southern tribes against American encroachment amidst looming war between the U.S. and England. Tecumseh passionately urged unity against their common foe, warning of the dire consequences of inaction. Apushamatahah countered with a call for prudence, advocating for peaceful measures. Ultimately, the council resulted in favoring American alliance, thwarting Tecumseh’s ambitions. This pivotal meeting highlighted the contrasting strategies of the two influential leaders, shaping tribal responses during a critical historical period.

The Tribes West of the Mississippi – Indian Wars

Numerous Indian tribes were relocated west of the Mississippi through treaties, leading to significant declines in their populations. The Sioux, Blackfeet, Crows, and Pawnees remain dominant western tribes, often engaged in conflict. A notable battle occurred in June 1845 between the Crows and Blackfeet, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by settlers. While tribes like the Sacs and Foxes maintain their warlike heritage, others, such as the Choctaws and Cherokees, have embraced agriculture and peace, adapting to the changes brought by colonization.

Life and travels of Colonel James Smith – Indian Captivities

James Smith, pioneer, was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, in 1737. When he was eighteen years of age he was captured by the Indians, was adopted into one of their tribes, and lived with them as one of themselves until his escape in 1759. He became a lieutenant under General Bouquet during the expedition against the Ohio Indians in 1764, and was captain of a company of rangers in Lord Dunmore’s War. In 1775 he was promoted to major of militia. He served in the Pennsylvania convention in 1776, and in the assembly in 1776-77. In the latter year he was commissioned colonel in command on the frontiers, and performed distinguished services. Smith moved to Kentucky in 1788. He was a member of the Danville convention, and represented Bourbon county for many years in the legislature. He died in Washington county, Kentucky, in 1812. The following narrative of his experience as member of an Indian tribe is from his own book entitled “Remarkable Adventures in the Life and Travels of Colonel James Smith,” printed at Lexington, Kentucky, in 1799. It affords a striking contrast to the terrible experiences of the other captives whose stories are republished in this book; for he was well treated, and stayed so long with his red captors that he acquired expert knowledge of their arts and customs, and deep insight into their character.

Eyewitnesses who were never called to the witness stand

Between 1585 and 1600, a catastrophic event in the Southern Highlands led to the abandonment of major indigenous towns and the cessation of mound building, particularly in places like northwest Georgia and southeastern Tennessee. Archaeological evidence suggests a European invasion, possibly accompanied by deadly pathogens, decimated the native population. Following the 1976 adoption of a Cherokee-centric historical narrative, many archaeological interpretations misidentified other tribes, particularly failing to recognize the Shawnee and Muskogean presence in the region. Accurate identity verification remains essential in understanding the area’s complex past.

The Cherokee Revolt – Indian Wars

The Cherokee Revolt in 1872 began after a violent confrontation between U.S. Deputy Marshals and a group of armed individuals in the Cherokee Nation, sparked by tensions surrounding a suspected murderer, Proctor. On April 13, a surprise attack by armed individuals resulted in the deaths of seven marshals and three assailants, with many others wounded. The swift government response helped contain the situation and prevent a broader uprising among the Cherokees against U.S. authority, highlighting tensions exacerbated by lawlessness and outside influences.

Minnesota Indian Massacre – Indian Wars

The U.S. government acquired significant Sioux lands through treaties in 1837 and 1851, establishing reservations while encouraging assimilation. Tensions escalated after the 1857 Spirit Lake massacre, leading to the Sioux’s growing resentment, particularly under Chief Little Crow. In August 1862, weakened by the Civil War, the Sioux launched a coordinated attack, resulting in widespread slaughter and devastation. Over two thousand whites were killed, prompting military retaliation. This conflict ended with Little Crow’s defeat and subsequent removal of the Sioux from Minnesota, marking a significant period in the Indian Wars.

Indian Wars of Carolina – Previous to the Revolution

Upon English settlement in South Carolina, various Native tribes resisted encroachment, leading to significant conflicts. The Tuscaroras and other tribes launched a united attack in 1712, resulting in a vicious colonial response led by Colonel Barnwell. This was followed by a destructive Yamassee uprising in 1715, prompting Governor Craven to mobilize forces against attackers. Subsequent conflicts with the Cherokees, marked by treachery and violence, eventually required assistance from British forces. Peace was ultimately restored through the mediation of the Cherokee leader, Attakullakulla.

Native Americans in the Revolutionary War

During the Revolutionary War, Native Americans found themselves in a complex position, with both the British and American sides vying for their allegiance. While the British secured many tribes through established relationships and resources, the Americans attempted to win their favor through treaties and gifts, ultimately failing to make significant impacts. Notably, tribes like the Cherokees and the Six Nations often sided with the British, resulting in violent conflicts and retaliatory expeditions by American forces. The war brought unprecedented cruelty, with massacres affecting both sides and deepening animosities.