Chickasaw

Location: The Chickasaw formerly lived in what is now northern Mississippi and Alabama.

History: It is suspected that in earlier history the Chickasaw and Choctaw may have been a single tribe. The Chickasaw were a semi-nomadic tribe that closely patrolled their claimed territory and raided territory to the north. While doing so, they absorbed the remnants of the tribes that they conquered. By doing this, they became a mixed-blood tribe. They became known as "breeds".

In the 18th century the Chickasaw got involved in the struggles between the British and French. They took sides with the British against the French and Choctaw. In the 1830's they were removed with force to Indian Territory that is now known as Oklahoma. They joined the already present tribes of Creek, Cherokee, Choctaw and Seminole. Some Indians now live on tribal landholdings, otherwise known as reservations.

Daily Life: The Chickasaw did not tend to form villages, rather they were scattered for miles along a stream or river. Their supreme deity was associated with the sky, sun and fire. Once a year they celebrated a harvest and new-fire rite similar to the Green Corn ceremony of the Creek.

Best Known Features: The Chickasaw flag is indigo and bears a representation of the seal of the Chickasaw Nation. The gold and light purple stripes symbolize the purity and honor of the people. The warrior represents Tishomingo and all Chickasaw people. Tishomingo was the last war chief from the time period when the Chickasaw lived in the southeastern area of the United States. Tishomingo has two arrows in his hand. These stand for historical divisions of the Chickasaw, the forest and town dwellers. The four head feathers worn by Tishomingo represent the four directions on a compass. The bow and quiver stand for a warrior's honor to defend his people. The shield symbolizes the protection that warriors offer the Chickasaw.

Written by: Jennifer Segar

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