Wilma Mankiller
From Academic Kids
Wilma Pearl Mankiller (born November 18, 1945 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma) became the first female Chief of the Cherokee nation in 1985. She followed Chief Ross Swimmer, who resigned to head the Bureau of Indian Affairs instead. Initially, Mankiller faced much opposition, much of which was the result of sexism. However, Mankiller became the first freely-elected Chief of the Cherokee nation after a landslide victory in 1987, and was re-elected Chief in 1991. She resigned in 1995 due to health reasons.
The Cherokee are generally very proud of Wilma, who remains perhaps the most celebrated Cherokee of the 20th century. "Prior to my election," says Mankiller, "young Cherokee girls would never have thought that they might grow up and become chief."
Mankiller has published two books: an autobiography, "Mankiller: A Chief and Her People" (ISBN 0312206623), which became a national bestseller, and "Every Day is a Good Day" (ISBN 1555915167), which became available in Fall 2004.
External link
- The Cherokee Nation website (http://www.cherokee.org)
