Cherokee Brigadier General Stand Watie

In June of 1839, a group of about 100 tribesmen gathered in secret and agree together to sentence Major Ridge, John Ridge, Elias Boudinot and Stand Watie to death for crimes against their people. They were successful in carrying out this punishment except for Stand Watie, who had been warned and had escaped.

John Ross was proud of his ties with the peaceful Cherokee and was well-liked and respected by them. He had known nothing of the executions of the Ridges and Boudinot. Between 1839 and 1846, many revenge killings took place. It was a bloody, terrible time. In 1846, Watie and John Ross agreed to stop the internal conflicts and strive for peace among their people. Watie was appointed to the Cherokee Tribal Council and served from 1846 through 1861.

Shortly thereafter, Watie enlisted in the Confederate army and rapidly rose in rank. His reputation as a courageous and optimistic man would serve him well. He was promoted to Brigadier General in 1864 and was the last Southern General to surrender.

Stand Watie died on September 9, 1871. He had outlived all but two of his children. He is remembered by many Cherokee as a proud, courageous man, although misguided in his alliances.

Resource: "Cherokee Stand Watie exhibited bravery and leadership while fighting for two lost causes." by Jim Stebinger.

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