Wilma Mankiller

Wilma Pearl Mankiller (Cherokee: ᎠᏥᎳᏍᎩ ᎠᏍᎦᏯᏗᎯ; November 18`, 1945 – April 6, 2010) Was the first female principal chief of a major Native American tribe. Mankiller dedicated her life to aid the advancement and recognition of the Cherokee Nation, a Native American tribe based in Oklahoma. In 1977, she was elected to be deputy principal chief of the Cherokee Nation. She eventually replaced her boss as the Principal Cherokee chief, the main leader of the Cherokee. She was officially elected as chief 1987. During her time as chief, many Cherokee became official members of the Nation. Her administration brought great improvements in healthcare, jobs, and education for the Cherokee Nation. Mankiller also founded the Institute for Cherokee Literacy, which serves to preserve Cherokee traditions and culture. In 1993, she became a member of the National Women’s Hall of Fame for her accomplishments. In 1998, she was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is one of the highest honors a citizen of the United States can receive. Mankiller died on April 6, 2010 of Pancreatic Cancer.