On April 6, 2010, the Cherokee Nation and the wider world mourned the loss of Wilma Mankiller, a towering figure in Native American history. At the age of 64, Mankiller succumbed to pancreatic cancer, leaving behind a legacy of profound and lasting impact. She was not merely a leader; she was a catalyst for change, a beacon of hope, and an embodiment of resilience for the Cherokee people and Indigenous communities across the United States. Her story is one of overcoming adversity, championing self-determination, and transforming the landscape of Native American leadership. This article will explore the remarkable life and career of Wilma Mankiller, the first woman to serve as Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, and the indelible mark she left on the world.
Born on November 18, 1945, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, the capital of the Cherokee Nation, Wilma Mankiller’s early life was steeped in Cherokee culture and tradition. Her family lived in a rural, impoverished area, and she experienced firsthand the challenges faced by many Native Americans. Her surname, "Mankiller," was a traditional Cherokee military title, a testament to her family’s warrior lineage. In the mid-1950s, as part of the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ relocation program, her family moved to the San Francisco Bay Area. This experience, while intended to assimilate Native Americans into mainstream society, instead fueled Mankiller’s growing awareness of social injustice and ignited her passion for activism.
The move to California exposed her to a different world, one of both opportunity and discrimination. She witnessed the struggles of Native Americans in urban environments and the erosion of their cultural identity. This period proved formative, solidifying her commitment to fighting for the rights and self-determination of Indigenous peoples. The Alcatraz Island occupation of 1969, led by Native American activists, served as a pivotal moment, further galvanizing her involvement in the movement. She began working with various Native American organizations, focusing on issues such as education, healthcare, and housing.
Mankiller’s return to Oklahoma in the 1970s marked a turning point in her career. She became increasingly involved in the Cherokee Nation’s government, initially working on community development projects. Her leadership skills and dedication quickly became apparent, and she rose through the ranks. In 1983, she made history by becoming the first woman to be elected Deputy Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, serving alongside Principal Chief Ross Swimmer. This was a groundbreaking achievement, shattering gender barriers and paving the way for future generations of women leaders in tribal government.
In 1985, Swimmer resigned to take a position with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and Wilma Mankiller assumed the role of Principal Chief, becoming the first woman in Cherokee history to hold the position. Her election and subsequent tenure as Principal Chief were nothing short of transformative for the Cherokee Nation. She inherited a tribe grappling with poverty, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure. Under her visionary leadership, the Cherokee Nation experienced a period of unprecedented growth and progress.
Mankiller’s leadership style was characterized by collaboration, inclusivity, and a deep understanding of the needs of her people. She prioritized community development, focusing on improving access to education, healthcare, and housing. One of her most notable achievements was the implementation of self-help projects, empowering Cherokee communities to take control of their own destinies. The Bell Water Line project, which she undertook with her husband Charlie Soap, became a model for community-based development, demonstrating the power of collective action and self-reliance.
During her decade as Principal Chief, Mankiller oversaw significant improvements in the Cherokee Nation’s economy, healthcare system, and educational opportunities. She championed the revitalization of the Cherokee language and culture, recognizing the importance of preserving the tribe’s heritage for future generations. She also fostered strong relationships with other tribes and with the federal government, advocating for Native American rights and self-determination on a national level.
Mankiller’s impact extended far beyond the borders of the Cherokee Nation. She became a national figure, admired for her leadership, her advocacy for Native American rights, and her commitment to social justice. She served as an inspiration to women and minorities across the country, demonstrating that anything is possible with determination and perseverance. She was a sought-after speaker and advisor, sharing her wisdom and experience with audiences around the world.
In 1995, after serving three terms as Principal Chief, Mankiller retired from public office, citing health concerns. However, she remained active in public life, serving on the boards of various organizations and continuing to advocate for Native American causes. She also authored several books, including her autobiography, "Mankiller: A Chief and Her People," which became a national bestseller and further cemented her legacy as a powerful voice for Indigenous peoples.
Throughout her life, Wilma Mankiller received numerous accolades and honors, recognizing her extraordinary contributions to the Cherokee Nation and to the nation as a whole. In 1998, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Bill Clinton, the highest civilian honor in the United States. This prestigious award acknowledged her remarkable leadership, her unwavering commitment to social justice, and her profound impact on the lives of countless individuals.
The passing of Wilma Mankiller in 2010 marked the end of an era, but her legacy continues to inspire and empower. She left behind a Cherokee Nation that was stronger, more prosperous, and more self-reliant than ever before. She shattered barriers, challenged stereotypes, and paved the way for future generations of Native American leaders. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, self-determination, and the power of one person to make a difference in the world. Her vision for a brighter future for the Cherokee Nation and for all Indigenous peoples continues to guide and motivate those who carry on her work.
Mankiller’s legacy extends far beyond her political accomplishments. She embodied the spirit of the Cherokee people, their resilience, their strength, and their deep connection to their culture and traditions. She taught the world the importance of respecting Indigenous rights, preserving cultural heritage, and empowering communities to take control of their own destinies. Her life was a testament to the power of leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to social justice.