Full Name: Wilma Pearl Mankiller
Profession: Activist and Chief of the Cherokee Nation
Biography: Wilma Mankiller was a Cherokee Nation leader and the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. Engaging in activism and social work early in her life, Mankiller was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Bill Clinton in 1998 and in 2021 was named to the United States Mint's "American Women Quarters" program.
Mankiller married Hector Hugo Olaya de Bardi in 1963 and became a mother to two daughters. She was involved in the Occupation of Alcatraz, advocating for Native American rights. Mankiller worked as a social worker and contributed to drafting the Indian Child Welfare Act.
Upon returning to Oklahoma, Mankiller worked for the Cherokee Nation and led community projects. Her tenure as Principal Chief was marked by significant advancements in health care and education for the Cherokee people. She is also known for her bestselling autobiography, Mankiller: A Chief and Her People (1993).
Born: November 18, 1945
Birthplace: Tahlequah, Oklahoma, USA
Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rooster
Star Sign: Scorpio
Died: April 6, 2010 (aged 64)
Cause of Death: Cancer
Historical Events
- 1969-11-20 Alcatraz Island off San Francisco is seized by militant Native Americans, inspiring Wilma Mankiller to become involved
References
Famous Native Americans
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