Savanukah facts for kids

Savanukahwn (pronounced Sah-vah-noo-kah-wn), a respected Cherokee leader, was also known as the Raven of Chota. He lived in the late 1700s. As the nephew of Oconostota, another important Cherokee chief, Savanukahwn became the First Beloved Man of the Cherokee people in the fall of 1781. This title meant he was their main leader. However, he was replaced by the elders of the Overhill towns in 1783. They chose Old Tassel, who preferred peaceful solutions, to lead instead.

A Cherokee Leader: Savanukahwn

Savanukahwn was a significant figure in Cherokee history during a challenging time. He was part of a powerful family, being the nephew of Oconostota, who was also a very important leader. When Savanukahwn became the First Beloved Man, he took on the highest leadership role among the Cherokee. This position involved making big decisions for his people.

His time as the main leader was short, lasting from 1781 to 1783. The "Overhill towns" were important Cherokee communities. Their elders decided to choose a different leader. They picked Old Tassel because he was known for being more "pacifist," meaning he preferred peace and avoiding war.

Savanukahwn and the Cherokee War

Savanukahwn played a key role during a conflict known as the Second Cherokee War. This war happened in 1776. It was a time when the Cherokee people were fighting to protect their lands. These lands are now part of eastern Tennessee.

In 1776, Savanukahwn led an important attack. He guided Cherokee warriors against new settlements in a place called Carter's Valley. This area was part of Cherokee territory. Other Cherokee leaders also led attacks during this war. Dragging Canoe, a famous leader from Great Island, led attacks along the Holston River. Another leader named Abraham, from Chilhowie, led attacks on settlements near the Watauga and Nolichucky rivers. All these areas are now in East Tennessee.