The Cherokee Nation, originally from the southeastern United States, was forcibly relocated to present-day Oklahoma during the infamous Trail of Tears in the 1830s. This journey resulted in the death of thousands of Cherokee people. Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was established as the capital of the Cherokee Nation in 1839, where the tribe worked to rebuild their society and governance. Over the years, the Cherokee Nation has grown to be one of the largest and most influential Native American tribes in the United States, with a strong emphasis on preserving their cultural heritage and sovereignty.
What is the tribe's most recent population census?
As of the most recent data, the Cherokee Nation is the largest federally recognized tribe in the United States. The tribe's population exceeds 380,000 members, with the majority residing in Oklahoma.
What is the language spoken by the tribe?
The Cherokee language, known as Tsalagi, is an Iroquoian language with a unique syllabary created by Sequoyah in 1821. Unlike alphabets that use individual letters to form words, the Cherokee syllabary uses symbols to represent syllables. This system consists of 85 characters, making it distinct and complex.
Is there a language revitalization program in the tribe?
Yes, the Cherokee Nation has several language revitalization programs aimed at preserving and promoting the Cherokee language. These include immersion schools for young children, adult language classes, and online resources.
Does the tribe have any Christian history?
The Cherokee Nation has a significant Christian history, primarily due to the influence of missionaries in the 19th century. Missionaries from various denominations, including Moravians, Baptists, and Methodists, established schools and churches within Cherokee communities. These missions played a crucial role in education and the spread of Christianity among the Cherokee. Today, many Cherokee people identify as Christians, and Christian churches are an integral part of community life.
Is there a Bible in the language of the tribe?
Yes, the Cherokee Nation has parts of the Bible translated in their language. The first parts of the Bible were translated into Cherokee in the 1820s and 1830s by missionaries like Samuel Worcester and Elias Boudinot, using the Cherokee syllabary developed by Sequoyah. This early translation included the New Testament, which was printed in 1826.
Are there any Bible translation efforts in the tribe?
Current Bible translation efforts within the Cherokee Nation focus on updating and expanding the existing translations to ensure accuracy and comprehension for modern speakers. These efforts often involve collaboration between linguists, native speakers, and religious organizations.
Are there any gospel hymns in the tribe’s language?
Yes, there are numerous gospel hymns in the Cherokee language. These hymns are an essential part of religious and cultural life for many Cherokee Christians. Hymnals in the Cherokee language have been produced, often combining traditional Cherokee music with Christian themes. These hymns are sung in churches and community gatherings, helping to preserve the language while also expressing the deep spiritual heritage of the Cherokee people.
Learn more about the Cherokee Nation by visiting their website.
