The First Woman Cherokee Chief

By Patricia Morris Buckley, Aphelandra Messer (Illustrator)

A woman challenges tradition to lead the Cherokee Nation and reshape history.

4.2/5 Goodreads · 38 ratings

48 pages

$14.99Save 7%

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Bookroo's summary

In 1985, Wilma Pearl Mankiller became the first woman to lead the Cherokee Nation, challenging centuries of male-dominated leadership. As Principal Chief, she faced the daunting task of proving that leadership transcends gender. With the spirit of gaduji, a tradition of mutual support, she aimed to strengthen her people and restore balance. Can she overcome deep-rooted biases and unite her community? Discover the inspiring journey of a trailblazer who redefined what it means to lead.

From the publisher

Find out all about Wilma Pearl Mankiller, the first woman Cherokee chief whose image will appear on a 2022 US quarter, in this Step 3 Biography Reader. In 1985, Wilma Pearl Mankiller became the first woman Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. She had to convince her people that the chief should be the best person for the job, man or woman. Before the English came to what is now the United States, Cherokee women and men shared the leadership of the tribe. This created balance. But the English colonists told the Native People that men should be in charge. It stayed that way for many years, until Wilma Pearl Mankiller made history. She used the concept of gaduji, of everyone helping each other, to make the Cherokee Nation strong. Step 3 Readers feature engaging characters in easy-to-follow plots and popular topics–for children who are ready to read on their own.

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