Beginning Cherokee

This book teaches the basics of Cherokee, the native language of 20,000 Americans, using the Oklahoma dialect. It is the first of its kind and aims to meet the demand for Amerindian language courses, as many Cherokees are now regretting the loss of their language. The book will also help non-Cherokee people understand that Indian tribes are contemporary people with an enduring heritage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2023
Publisher: University of Oklahoma Press

This groundbreaking book is the first of its kind, dedicated to teaching the fundamentals of Cherokee, the native tongue of approximately 20,000 Americans. While many Cherokee speakers utilize it as a second language, it holds significant cultural and historical value. Cherokee has a rich linguistic history, with several recognized dialects in the past. Today, the two main dialects are the North Carolina, spoken on the Qualla Reservation by around 3,000 individuals, and the Oklahoma, or Western, which is a consensus of the diverse ways of speech among the Cherokees who settled in the region after their removal from the East in the 1830s. This book employs the Oklahoma dialect, reflecting the recent surge in interest in Amerindian languages. This increased interest has led to a growing demand for language courses, prompting many Cherokees who previously neglected the opportunity to learn the language from their families to regret the loss. Parents who once believed that knowledge of Cherokee would be a disadvantage to their children have shifted their perspectives, recognizing its importance for cultural preservation and personal growth. Young individuals, who have come to understand the richness of their ancestors' heritage, are eager to explore the Cherokee language for themselves. Furthermore, those with limited time for organized study seek a convenient sourcebook on the Cherokee language and its syllabary. Entering Cherokee was crafted with these needs in mind, aiming to provide a comprehensive and accessible guide for everyone, regardless of their Cherokee heritage or language proficiency. By delving into the Cherokee language, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the contemporary nature of Indian tribes and their enduring heritage. The Cherokee language encapsulates an outlook and intellect that have contributed significantly to civilization throughout history and have the potential to make valuable contributions to the world in the future.

Dimension: 279 x 216 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780806114637