Cheyenne Tribal History Overview

Sep 22, 2024

Lecture Notes: Dr. Henrietta Mann on Cheyenne Tribal History

Introduction

  • Speaker: Dr. Henrietta Mann
  • Recognition: 2018 Circle of Honor Recipient by the American Indian Resource Center
  • Background: Cheyenne Indian, Name: Oyster On (Prayer Cloth Woman)

Importance of Names in Cheyenne Culture

  • Names are passed within the family, traditionally from the mother's side, now often from the father's side.
  • Carrying a family name is a duty to honor ancestors.

Historical Journey of the Cheyenne People

  • Sand Creek Massacre (1864): Led by Chief Black Kettle, followed by a second attack by Custer in 1868.
  • Cheyenne view life as sacred and cyclical.

Periods of Cheyenne History

  1. Ancient Time: Happy period, located north and east of current locations.
  2. Time of the Dogs: Migration period using large part-wolf dogs to carry belongings.
  3. Time of the Buffalo: Agricultural stage, reliance on buffalo for sustenance and materials.
  4. Time of the Horse: Acquisition of horses changed migration and lifestyle.

Cultural and Spiritual Beliefs

  • Sweet Medicine's Teachings: Prophet who provided Cheyenne cultural and governance systems.
  • Four Cardinal Values:
    • Love (kindness and compassion)
    • Respect (for nature, people, and all creation)
    • Honesty (do not lie or cheat)
    • Generosity and Humility
  • Respect for the Earth: Emphasis on environmental consciousness and interdependence.
  • Governance Systems:
    • Council of 44 Peace Chiefs
    • Four Warrior Societies

Treaty History and Land Changes

  • Series of treaties with the U.S. government leading to loss of land.
  • Notable treaties include:
    • Treaty of Fort Laramie (1851)
    • Treaty of the Little Arkansas
    • Treaty of Medicine Lodge (1867)
  • Final reservation established by President Grant in 1869 in Oklahoma.

Modern Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes

  • Governance: Constitution adopted in 2006
  • Key Leaders: Governor Reggie Wassonne (Cheyenne), Lieutenant Governor Gilbert Miles (Arapaho)
  • Economic Ventures: Six casinos contributing to tribal welfare
  • Cultural Preservation: Language revitalization programs and annual Sun Dance ceremony

Conclusion

  • The Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes remain committed to their values and culture.
  • Emphasis on continued respect for their land and maintaining peace and understanding.