Big Tiger facts for kids

Big Tiger was an important leader among a group of Cherokee who had different ideas about how their nation should be run. From 1824 to 1828, he was known as the Principal Chief of this group. They followed the teachings of a wise traditional leader named Whitepath (also called Nunnahitsunega). Whitepath believed strongly in keeping the old Cherokee ways and lived in a place called Turnip Town, near the Ellijay River.

A Time of Change for the Cherokee

During the early 1800s, the Cherokee Nation was going through big changes. Many Cherokee leaders felt it was important to adopt some ways of the American settlers, like writing down laws and creating a new government. This process was called acculturation. However, not everyone agreed with these changes.

Whitepath's Beliefs

Whitepath was a full-blood traditionalist leader. This means he wanted the Cherokee people to stick to their ancient customs, beliefs, and laws. He was a member of the main Cherokee National Council, but he became worried that the Cherokee were losing their traditional identity.

Whitepath was inspired by the teachings of a Seneca prophet named Handsome Lake. A prophet is someone who shares important messages or ideas, often about spiritual or moral guidance. Like Handsome Lake, Whitepath believed that returning to old traditions was the best path for his people.

The Movement for Tradition

Whitepath started a movement that encouraged Cherokee people to reject some of the new ways. He suggested they should not follow Christianity, which was becoming more common, and should also turn away from the new Cherokee national constitution. Instead, he wanted them to go back to the old tribal laws and customs that had guided their ancestors for centuries.

This movement was sometimes called a "rebellion," but it was more like a strong disagreement within the Cherokee Nation. Whitepath and his followers wanted to preserve their cultural heritage.

The Outcome

Eventually, Whitepath and his group decided to work with the main Cherokee National Council. The "rebellion" ended peacefully when Whitepath agreed to join forces with the more progressive leaders. This showed that even with different ideas, the Cherokee people could find ways to unite for the good of their nation.