Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians: History & Culture

This program examines the history, sovereign status, and cultural traditions of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Starting with ancestral roots in the Appalachian region, the curriculum traces the tribe's unique path through the era of removal and the establishment of the Qualla Boundary. Participants will learn about the internal governance of the tribe, the importance of the Cherokee language, and the economic strategies that support the community today. The course provides a realistic look at how the tribe maintains its heritage while navigating modern legal and social landscapes without relying on common generalizations.