Johnson Harris facts for kids
Johnson Harris was an important Native American leader. He was born on April 19, 1856. His father was White, and his mother was from the Cherokee people. Harris became a politician and served his community in the Cherokee Nation.
Who Was Johnson Harris?
Johnson Harris started his public work when he was elected to the Cherokee senate in 1881. This was an important step in his career. He worked to represent the people of the Cherokee Nation.
Becoming Principal Chief
Later, in 1891, a leader named J. B. Mayes passed away. After this, the council of the Cherokee Nation chose Johnson Harris to be their Principal Chief. This was a very important job, like being the president of a country. He led the Cherokee Nation in a place called Indian Territory. He served as Principal Chief from 1891 until 1895.
The Cherokee Nation and Indian Territory
The Cherokee Nation was a self-governing group of Cherokee people. They had their own laws and leaders. Indian Territory was an area set aside by the United States government for Native American tribes. It is now part of the state of Oklahoma.
