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History Lessons / By Merrie Fogt NOTE: Merrie Fogt died on May 27, 2001, leaving the world void of anyone like her. Her Oklahoma phrasing, Irish humor and love of subtitles gave her a voice that was distinctly Merrie. We miss her. Past Imperfect The name of Oklahoma comes from two Choctaw words Okla and Hommi, which means "red people." There were five civilized tribes in Oklahoma: the Cherokees, Chickasaws, Choctaws, Creeks, and Seminoles. They were called the Five Civilized Tribes by the white man because they showed a willingness to adopt white culture, and to live in peace. Not even today can the white man be called "civilized" under those rules. April 22, 1887, was the first day homesteading was allowed in Oklahoma. Fifty thousand people swarmed into the area. Those who tried to beat the gun signal at noon were called "sooners." Sooner became the state's nickname. I have never understood why the "Okies" seem proud of that bunch of thieves. Tales of the Red Men I don't know why we had a book issued to us that I believe was distributed by the State of Oklahoma. The book was mainly about the Five Civilized Tribes. This is what I learned: Story telling was a favorite pastime of the Indians. They told of great battles and great deeds of valor during the battles (especially by the storyteller). The Apaches thought that stealing, without being caught, and killing, without being killed, were virtues. The Cherokees were considered "war-like"; a term used to justify killing or removing Indians, but it might be more accurate to say that the Cherokees had an abiding unwillingness to "be pushed around." Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce gave a moving surrender speech. The first part I could not find, but he is basically saying that he is giving up because his people were in such a sorry state. He goes on to say, "Hear me, my chiefs, I am tired; my heart is sick and sad. From where the sun now stands, I will fight no more forever." The Comanches were the best horsemen, and fighters, and after one major battle, 24 arrows were found in the body of a much hated enemy. Long Ago and Far Away When I was a little girl one of my greatest pleasures was when the Indians set up an encampment on the town square. The tipis were made of bleached buffalo hides with painted symbols. In front of the tipis were racks made of thick sticks with pots of simmering soups, and roasting meats, which smelled so good. |