Wilma Mankiller

Date of Birth: November 18, 1945

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: April 6, 2010

Biography

Wilma Pearl Mankiller was a celebrated Native American leader and the first woman to serve as Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. Born in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, she grew up in a rural environment before her family relocated to San Francisco as part of a government relocation program. Mankiller’s early life was marked by both cultural enrichment and socioeconomic challenges. She became deeply involved in social activism during the 1960s and 1970s, inspired by the Civil Rights Movement and the occupation of Alcatraz Island by Native American activists. In 1983, Mankiller was elected Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation, and in 1985, she ascended to the role of Principal Chief following the resignation of Ross Swimmer. As Chief, she focused on self-governance, education, and healthcare for the Cherokee people, significantly improving the tribe’s infrastructure and community services. Mankiller served three terms before stepping down in 1995 due to health concerns. She authored multiple books and was a sought-after speaker and advocate for Native American and women’s rights. Mankiller passed away in 2010, leaving behind a lasting legacy of leadership and empowerment.

5 Interesting Facts about Wilma Mankiller

1. Wilma Mankiller was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1998.

2. She co-authored an autobiography titled “Mankiller: A Chief and Her People.”

3. Mankiller survived a severe car accident in 1979 and later battled myasthenia gravis and lymphoma.

4. She implemented the Cherokee Nation Community Development Department, which empowered local communities to tackle their own problems.

5. Mankiller was posthumously inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1993.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Wilma Mankiller

1. “The secret of our success is that we never, never give up.”

2. “We celebrate the important role that women have played in our nation’s history, but we also recognize that there is much work to be done to achieve true equality.”

3. “I want to be remembered as the person who helped us restore faith in ourselves.”

4. “In Iroquois society, leaders are encouraged to remember seven generations in the past and consider seven generations in the future when making decisions.”

5. “Growth is a painful process.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Wilma Mankiller’s net worth was not publicly documented, as her focus was primarily on community development and public service rather than personal wealth accumulation.