The Cheyenne, known in their own language as Tsêhéstáno (also spelled Tsitsistas), once comprised a powerful nation of ten bands that roamed the vast expanse of the Great Plains, their territory stretching from present-day southern Colorado to the rolling hills of the Black Hills in South Dakota. This extensive range reflects the Cheyenne’s adaptability and their deep connection to the land and its resources. Understanding the Cheyenne Principal Divisions and Bands is crucial to comprehending their complex social structure and history.
The Cheyenne’s initial interactions with Europeans occurred while they resided primarily in what is now the state of Minnesota. This early contact marked the beginning of significant transformations in their way of life, as trade, conflict, and disease began to impact their traditional existence. These early encounters also set the stage for the Cheyenne’s westward migration and their eventual emergence as a prominent force on the Great Plains.
The Two Tribes: Tsitsistas and Sutaio
The Cheyenne Nation is fundamentally composed of two distinct tribes: the Tsitsistas and the Sutaio (sometimes spelled Sutaio or Suhtai). The Tsitsistas, whose name translates to "those who are like this," form the core of the Cheyenne people. Their identity is deeply rooted in their shared culture, language, and traditions, which have been carefully preserved and passed down through generations. The Sutaio, on the other hand, are believed to have joined the Tsitsistas relatively later in their history.
These two tribes maintained a close alliance and often traveled together. While initially distinct, with the Sutaio possibly exhibiting slight variations in speech and customs, they gradually merged, solidifying their union sometime after 1831. Even as they traveled together, historical accounts suggest that the two groups maintained separate camps, reflecting their distinct origins and social structures. This eventual merging of the Tsitsistas and Sutaio created a stronger and more unified Cheyenne Nation, capable of navigating the challenges of the changing Great Plains landscape. Understanding the relationship between the Tsitsistas and Sutaio is essential for anyone studying the Cheyenne Principal Divisions and Bands.
The Etymology of "Cheyenne"
The origin of the name "Cheyenne" itself is shrouded in some mystery, with various theories attempting to explain its derivation. One common explanation suggests that "Cheyenne" originates from the Dakota Sioux exonym for the Cheyenne people, Šahíyena, which translates to "little Šahíya." The identity of the Šahíya remains uncertain, but many Plains tribes believe it refers to the Cree or another Algonquian-speaking group closely related to the Cheyenne. The Cheyenne word for "Ojibwe," Sáhea’eo’o, bears a phonetic resemblance to the Dakota word Šahíya, further supporting this theory.
Another possible etymology links "Cheyenne" to the concept of "a bit like the [people of an] alien speech," or literally, "red-talker." According to the historian George Bird Grinnell, the Dakota referred to themselves and other Siouan-speaking groups as "white talkers," while designating those from different language families, such as the Algonquian Cheyenne, as "red talkers" (Šahíyena).
Despite these different explanations, a definitive consensus on the precise origin of the name "Cheyenne" remains elusive. The Cheyenne dictionary offered online by Chief Dull Knife College highlights the ongoing scholarly debate surrounding the word’s etymology. Similarly, interpretations of the word Tsêhéstáno also vary. Grinnell’s interpretation, which defines the term as simply "people," is considered a typical translation. However, others argue that a more accurate rendering would be "related to one another, similarly bred, like us, our people, or us."
The Principal Divisions: Northern and Southern Cheyenne
Today, the Cheyenne Nation is divided into two distinct divisions: the Northern Cheyenne and the Southern Cheyenne. This division arose primarily due to historical circumstances, including westward expansion, government policies, and differing responses to the challenges of the 19th century. Understanding the distinction between these two groups is key to understanding the modern Cheyenne Principal Divisions and Bands.
The Northern Cheyenne, known in their language as Notameohmésêhese (meaning "Northern Eaters") or simply Ohmésêhese ("Eaters"), reside in southeastern Montana on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation. This reservation serves as the heartland of the Northern Cheyenne, where they maintain their cultural traditions and strive for self-determination. The Northern Cheyenne have a strong sense of identity and a deep connection to their ancestral lands.
The Southern Cheyenne, known as Heévâhetaneo’o (meaning "Roped People"), are closely affiliated with the Southern Arapaho, forming the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes in western Oklahoma. This alliance reflects a long history of cooperation and shared cultural heritage between the two tribes. The Southern Cheyenne, like their northern counterparts, are dedicated to preserving their cultural identity and advocating for their rights.
The division between the Northern and Southern Cheyenne is not merely geographical; it also reflects different historical experiences and political realities. While both groups share a common ancestry and cultural heritage, they have developed distinct identities and priorities in response to their unique circumstances. Despite these differences, both the Northern and Southern Cheyenne remain deeply connected to their shared heritage and committed to preserving their cultural traditions for future generations.
Cheyenne Band Designations
While the original article mentions Cheyenne band designations, it does not provide specific information about them. Understanding the band structure is crucial to a comprehensive understanding of the Cheyenne people. Historically, the Cheyenne were organized into ten principal bands. These bands were not merely administrative units; they were the fundamental building blocks of Cheyenne society, providing a sense of belonging, mutual support, and cultural continuity. Each band had its own distinct identity, leadership, and territory, but all were united by their shared Cheyenne heritage and their commitment to the common good.
(Further research is needed to provide a detailed list of the historical Cheyenne bands and their specific characteristics.)
Conclusion
The Cheyenne Principal Divisions and Bands represent a complex and dynamic social structure that has evolved over centuries. From their origins as two distinct tribes, the Tsitsistas and Sutaio, to their division into the Northern and Southern Cheyenne, the Cheyenne people have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of profound historical challenges. Their commitment to preserving their cultural traditions, language, and identity serves as an inspiration to indigenous peoples around the world. The historical Cheyenne Principal Divisions and Bands is a cornerstone of the Cheyenne identity.