Cheyenne

Definition

The Cheyenne are a Native American tribe originally from the Great Plains region of North America. They are known for their unique cultural practices, including buffalo hunting and a rich tradition of storytelling, and played a significant role in the interactions between Native Americans and early American settlers along the Oregon Trail.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Cheyenne traditionally lived in tipis, which were well-suited for their nomadic lifestyle on the Great Plains, allowing them to move easily while following buffalo herds.
2. In the 19th century, the Cheyenne became involved in conflicts with early American settlers and the U.S. Army, as their territories were encroached upon during westward expansion.
3. The Cheyenne were divided into two main groups: the Northern Cheyenne and the Southern Cheyenne, each with distinct social structures and geographic territories.
4. The tribe's resistance to U.S. government policies led to significant battles, such as the Sand Creek Massacre in 1864, where many Cheyenne were killed by Colorado militia forces.
5. The legacy of the Cheyenne includes a rich oral tradition that preserves their history and cultural identity despite pressures from outside forces.

Review Questions

• How did the Cheyenne interact with early American settlers along the Oregon Trail?
  • The interactions between the Cheyenne and early American settlers along the Oregon Trail were complex and often tense. While some Cheyenne individuals engaged in trade with settlers, others viewed the encroachment of settlers into their territory as a threat to their way of life. This led to conflicts as settlers moved westward, often resulting in violent encounters as both sides struggled for control over land and resources.
• What were some of the consequences of U.S. government policies on the Cheyenne during westward expansion?
  • U.S. government policies during westward expansion significantly impacted the Cheyenne. The treaties established boundaries that often failed to respect traditional Cheyenne lands, leading to conflicts and forced relocations. Events like the Sand Creek Massacre illustrated the tragic consequences of these policies, resulting in loss of life and territory for the Cheyenne, contributing to their struggle for sovereignty and recognition.
• Evaluate the impact of traditional Cheyenne culture on their resistance against settler expansion in the 19th century.
  • Traditional Cheyenne culture had a profound impact on their resistance against settler expansion during the 19th century. The tribe's deep connection to the land, reflected in their nomadic lifestyle centered around buffalo hunting, fostered a strong sense of identity and unity among its members. This cultural cohesion empowered them to organize effectively against external threats and defend their territories. Their oral traditions not only preserved their history but also inspired resilience in their struggles against encroachment by settlers and military forces, showcasing how cultural values can motivate resistance efforts.

Related terms

Plains Indians: A group of Native American tribes that inhabit the Great Plains, known for their nomadic lifestyle centered around buffalo hunting and horse culture.

Treaty of Fort Laramie: An agreement signed in 1851 that established boundaries for Native American tribes, including the Cheyenne, and aimed to regulate the relationship between the U.S. government and various tribes.

Buffalo Soldiers: African American soldiers who served in the U.S. Army after the Civil War, often tasked with protecting settlers and infrastructure in the West, which sometimes brought them into conflict with Native American tribes like the Cheyenne.