Ned Christie the Cherokee Legend

Ned Christie, born on December 14, 1852, was a prominent figure in the history of the Cherokee Nation. He was an activist, outlaw, and controversial... more

by John Guthrie

Title

Ned Christie the Cherokee Legend

Artist

John Guthrie

Medium

Painting - Watercolor

Description

Ned Christie, born on December 14, 1852, was a prominent figure in the history of the Cherokee Nation. He was an activist, outlaw, and controversial figure, whose life and actions have become the subject of legend and debate. Christie's story is one of resistance, injustice, and the struggle for Native American rights.

Ned Christie was born in the Going Snake District of the Cherokee Nation, which is now part of Oklahoma. He belonged to a prominent Cherokee family, known for their political and military influence within the tribe. Christie himself was known for his intelligence, charisma, and physical strength. He became politically active at a young age, advocating for the rights and sovereignty of the Cherokee people.

In the late 19th century, as the United States government sought to assert control over Native American lands, conflicts arose between the Cherokees and the federal authorities. Christie, a staunch defender of Cherokee sovereignty, found himself at odds with the government's policies. He resisted attempts to dissolve tribal governments and divide Cherokee lands, becoming a symbol of Cherokee resistance.

However, Christie's life took a dramatic turn when he was accused of murdering a U.S. Deputy Marshal named Daniel Maples. The incident occurred in 1887, when a group of law enforcement officers arrived at Christie's home to arrest him on charges of selling whiskey. In the ensuing confrontation, shots were fired, and Maples was killed. Christie maintained his innocence and claimed that he acted in self-defense.

The ensuing manhunt for Ned Christie captured the attention of the nation. The media portrayed him as a dangerous outlaw and murderer, while many Cherokees saw him as a heroic figure standing up against unjust treatment. Despite his popularity among his people, Christie was eventually captured in 1892 after years of eluding the authorities. He was tried and convicted of murder, receiving a death sentence.

Christie's case attracted widespread attention and controversy. Many people, including some prominent political figures and activists, believed that he had been wrongfully convicted and campaigned for his release. They argued that Christie was a victim of racial prejudice and a legal system biased against Native Americans. Despite their efforts, Christie's appeals were ultimately denied, and he was executed on April 26, 1893.

To this day, the legacy of Ned Christie remains a subject of debate. Some view him as a symbol of resistance against the encroachment of Native American rights, while others see him as a criminal who paid the price for his actions. Regardless of one's perspective, Christie's story serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by Native American communities in their fight for justice and recognition.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Ned Christie and his case. Scholars, activists, and members of the Cherokee Nation continue to explore his life and the circumstances surrounding his trial, seeking to shed light on the complexities of his story. Through these efforts, Christie's name lives on, ensuring that his fight for Native American rights is not forgotten.

Uploaded

December 7th, 2020