Women's History - Wilma Mankiller

"Prior to my election, young Cherokee girls would never have thought that they might grow up and become chief."
- Wilma Mankiller

The first female Chief of the Cherokee Nation, or any major Native American tribe, Wilma Mankiller opened doors for young Cherokee girls who now believe that they, too, can serve in leadership positions in a male-dominated environment.

Her political action began by protesting American policy that denied Native Americans of land, an event which Mankiller says "changed [her] forever." Her political action led to increased political action as an organizer in San Francisco, "starting community self-help programs and teaching people ways out of poverty." That included helping to build a school, a youth center, and a renovation of the water system for her community.

She continued to work her way up the ladder, getting elected deputy chief of the Cherokee Nation -- another first for a woman -- and putting her in a position to serve as principal chief. During her time as Chief, she devoted special attention to health care programs and looking out for the interests of children.

Her honors and awards include the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the two highest civilian awards in the United States. She has also been recognized as American Indian Woman of the Year, received the Indian Health Service Award, and has been entered into the National Women's Hall of Fame.

For more biographies in celebration of women's history month, click here.