Cherokee

The Cherokee are an indigenous people of the southeastern United States. They are one of the largest Native American tribes in the country, with a population of over 300,000 people. The Cherokee have a rich history and culture, and they have played an important role in American history.

History

The Cherokee have lived in the southeastern United States for thousands of years. They were originally a nomadic people, but they eventually settled in the area that is now Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama. The Cherokee developed a complex society, with a government, laws, and a written language.

In the 19th century, the Cherokee were forced to give up their land and move to Indian Territory (now Oklahoma). This forced removal, known as the Trail of Tears, was a tragic event for the Cherokee. Many people died on the journey, and those who survived were forced to live in poverty and squalor.

Culture

The Cherokee have a rich culture, which includes their own language, music, art, and crafts. The Cherokee language is a member of the Iroquoian language family, and it is still spoken by many people today. Cherokee music is traditional, and it is often used for ceremonies and special occasions. Cherokee art is also traditional, and it often features geometric designs and symbols.

Government

The Cherokee have a democratic government, with a chief and a council. The chief is elected by the people, and he serves for a four-year term. The council is also elected by the people, and it consists of 12 members. The council meets regularly to discuss and decide on important issues.

Economy

The Cherokee have a diverse economy, which includes agriculture, tourism, and gaming. Agriculture is the largest sector of the economy, and the Cherokee grow a variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, and wheat. Tourism is also an important part of the economy, and the Cherokee have several casinos and resorts. Gaming is a major source of revenue for the Cherokee, and it has helped to improve the economy of the tribe.

Challenges

The Cherokee face a number of challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education. Poverty is a major problem for the Cherokee, and many families live below the poverty line. Unemployment is also a problem, and many people are unable to find work. Lack of access to education is another challenge, and many Cherokee children do not attend school.

The Future

The Cherokee are a resilient people, and they have overcome many challenges in the past. They are working to improve their lives and their communities, and they are committed to preserving their culture and traditions. Despite the challenges they face, the Cherokee have a bright future.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Cherokee Population

| Year | Population |
|---|---|---|
| 1700 | 22,500 |
| 1800 | 17,000 |
| 1850 | 21,000 |
| 1900 | 30,000 |
| 2000 | 283,932 |
| 2010 | 316,332 |

Table 2: Cherokee Land

| Year | Land area (acres) |
|---|---|---|
| 1700 | 13,000,000 |
| 1800 | 9,000,000 |
| 1850 | 5,000,000 |
| 1900 | 2,000,000 |
| 2000 | 560,000 |
| 2010 | 564,255 |

Table 3: Cherokee Economic Indicators

| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|---|
| GDP | $1.7 billion |
| Unemployment rate | 10.0% |
| Poverty rate | 30.0% |
| Per capita income | $12,000 |

Useful Stories

Story 1:

The Trail of Tears was a tragic event for the Cherokee. Many people died on the journey, and those who survived were forced to live in poverty and squalor. However, the Cherokee people persevered, and they eventually rebuilt their lives.

Story 2:

In the 1960s, the Cherokee Nation was involved in a long legal battle with the state of Oklahoma over water rights. The Cherokee eventually won the case, and this victory helped to improve the economy of the tribe.

Story 3:

Today, the Cherokee Nation is a thriving community. The tribe has a strong economy, and it is working to improve the lives of its people. The Cherokee are also working to preserve their culture and traditions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When writing about the Cherokee, it is important to avoid making common mistakes. Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Using the term "Indian" to refer to the Cherokee. The term "Indian" is a misnomer, and it should not be used to refer to the Cherokee or any other Native American tribe.
• Referring to the Cherokee as a "tribe." The Cherokee are a nation, not a tribe.
• Assuming that all Cherokee people are the same. The Cherokee are a diverse people, and there is a great deal of variation within the tribe.
• Making generalizations about the Cherokee. It is important to avoid making generalizations about the Cherokee or any other Native American tribe.

How to Step-by-Step Approach

If you are interested in learning more about the Cherokee, there are a few things you can do:

1. Visit a Cherokee museum or cultural center. This is a great way to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Cherokee.
2. Read books and articles about the Cherokee. There are many resources available about the Cherokee, and reading about them is a great way to learn more about their history and culture.
3. Attend a Cherokee event. This is a great way to meet Cherokee people and learn about their culture firsthand.