Why were the Five Civilized Tribes considered civilized? This question has intrigued historians and anthropologists for centuries. The Five Civilized Tribes, which include the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, and Seminole, were often labeled as such due to their unique cultural, social, and political developments that set them apart from other Native American tribes during the 18th and 19th centuries. This article aims to explore the reasons behind this classification and shed light on the factors that contributed to the perception of these tribes as civilized.
The first reason the Five Civilized Tribes were considered civilized was their adoption of many aspects of European culture. These tribes actively engaged in trade with European settlers, which led to the exchange of goods, ideas, and even technology. This interaction resulted in the adoption of European farming techniques, such as the cultivation of crops like corn, cotton, and tobacco. The tribes also embraced aspects of European social structures, such as the institution of slavery, which was prevalent among the Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Creek.
Another factor that contributed to the perception of the Five Civilized Tribes as civilized was their establishment of written languages. The Cherokee, in particular, developed a unique syllabary, which was created by Sequoyah in the early 19th century. This writing system allowed the Cherokee to document their history, culture, and laws, which was a significant development in the Native American community. The other tribes also had their own writing systems, although they were less advanced than the Cherokee syllabary.
The Five Civilized Tribes also made significant strides in the realm of governance and politics. They established complex political systems, with chiefs and councils that made decisions for the tribes. The Cherokee, for example, had a highly organized government with a constitution and a system of laws. This level of political sophistication was rare among Native American tribes at the time and contributed to the perception of the Five Civilized Tribes as civilized.
Furthermore, the Five Civilized Tribes were known for their participation in the education of their children. They established schools and encouraged their youth to learn European languages and customs. This emphasis on education and the pursuit of knowledge was another reason why these tribes were considered civilized.
However, it is important to note that the classification of the Five Civilized Tribes as such was not without controversy. Many historians argue that this label was a form of Eurocentric bias, as it implied that Native American tribes that did not adopt European customs were less advanced. Additionally, the term “civilized” was often used to justify the forced removal of these tribes from their ancestral lands, as seen in the tragic events of the Trail of Tears.
In conclusion, the Five Civilized Tribes were considered civilized due to their adoption of European culture, development of written languages, establishment of complex political systems, emphasis on education, and participation in the broader society. However, this classification was not without its flaws and has been a subject of debate among scholars. Understanding the reasons behind this perception can provide valuable insights into the complex relationship between Native American tribes and European settlers during a critical period in American history.
