Date of Award

Fall 11-3-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in History

Department

History & Political Science

College

College of Arts & Humanities

Committee Chair

Dr. Kelly Houston Jones

Second Committee Member

Dr. Jeffrey Pearson

Third Committee Member

Dr. Aaron McArthur

Fourth Committee Member

N/A

Program Director

Dr. Kelly Houston Jones

Dean of Graduate College

Dr. Michael J. Bradley

Abstract

This thesis explores the role that the Cherokee Nation played during the Civil War in Indian Territory and in the border states. The Cherokee people were divided in loyalties between the Traditionalist Party led by Cherokee Chief John Ross and the Treaty Party of Major John Ridge. After the Treaty Party signed the New Echota Agreement with the United States Government, the Cherokee were expelled from their homelands in the Southeast and relocated to Indian Territory. With the murders of his family members, Stand Watie assumed the role of the leader of the Treaty Party and aligned with the Confederate States of America during the Civil War. John Ross’s faction initially swore allegiance to the Union, but switched sides because of Union and Confederate pressures. The Cherokee, as participants, faced many obstacles during the Civil War, including being labeled as savage and uncivilized through interpretations by white onlookers. Brutal acts occurred on both sides of the conflict, including by guerrillas who roamed Indian Territory and bordering states. By examining the Cherokee who sided with the Union and Confederacy, along with guerrilla activity, a better understanding is gained.

Download

Share

COinS