Five Civilized Tribes

The Five Civilized Tribes refer to five Native American nations—Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek (Muscogee), and Seminole—that adapted to European-American customs in the early 19th century. They developed agriculture, formal governments, and written languages, often engaging in trade and diplomacy. Despite these adaptations, they were forcibly removed from their ancestral lands during the Indian Removal Act of 1830, leading to the tragic Trail of Tears, where thousands suffered and died during relocation. Today, the tribes are recognized for their resilience and contributions to American society and culture.