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When I delve into historical fiction that centers on Native American experiences, I find my Cherokee Trilogy particularly individual. My series offers a rich tapestry of stories that illuminate the Cherokee people's history, culture, and resilience. What stands out most are the recurring themes that weave through the narrative, providing readers with a deeper understanding of Cherokee life beyond the surface. My "Bondage to Belonging?" presentation to Goingsnake Cherokee lite

This Saturday, October 17, I'm honored to speak, in person and by livestream, at the meeting of the Goingsnake Historical District Association in Westville, Oklahoma. This nonprofit works to preserve Cherokee history and genealogy, especially that of the old Goingsnake District. Their streaming audience is significant. Still, it's tiny next to the number of citizens in the Cherokee Nation and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. That raises a question that has troubled me fo

My grandmother, Ella Waters, was the great-granddaughter of Mike Waters. Mike's sister was Sally Waters, the wife of Sequoyah. That family line matters to me. It also points to a bigger problem in how Cherokee history gets told. While researching the Cherokee Trilogy, I kept finding the same pattern. Historians tend to write Cherokee history as a story about men: war, politics, treaties, lost land, and imposed "civilization." Women like my grandmother, the women she descend

I recently shared a PowerPoint presentation with an all-women audience at a DAR meeting in Fort Worth, Texas. This is a condensation of my presentation which I believe is appropriate for a broader audience. I wish to take a few moments to share with you the role of women in Cherokee culture and history from 1700 to 1900, the time span of my books. This is a pleasure for me. It honor’s my grandmother Ella Waters and her culture, the same motivation behind the creation of my hi

In my research for the Cherokee Trilogy, I have uncovered enlightening information about Cherokee history. One significant discovery focused on George Washington, the first president of the United States. He made a promise to the Cherokee that remains one of the most explicit ever made to them. The Treaty of Holston: A Broken Promise The Treaty of Holston, signed on July 2, 1791, established a boundary for the Cherokee Nation. Article IV defined this boundary from Currahee Mo

At book fairs and speaking engagements, this is the question I'm asked most often. And when someone has already read one or more of my Cherokee Trilogy novels, the follow-up usually comes fast: "Why don't you write Cherokee history books instead?" The answer is simple, though for some it takes a little unpacking. I came to my Cherokee heritage late in life. My father, who gave me my Cherokee blood, lived in a time when Native Americans were looked down upon, and in all my mem

Long before the seven-pointed star appeared on any seal or flag, the number seven was already sacred to the Cherokee. In traditional cosmology, the numbers four and seven recur through stories, rituals, and political life — four for the cardinal directions from which the Earth is suspended by cords, and seven for a level of purity considered nearly unattainable in the natural world. The seven-pointed star draws its meaning from that older numerical grammar rather than from an

When I first encountered the Cherokee Trilogy, I was struck by its powerful storytelling and deep cultural insights. This trilogy offers a unique window into Cherokee history and identity, told from an authentic Cherokee perspective. It goes beyond the usual narratives, revealing stories and struggles that many readers might not have encountered before. If you enjoy historical fiction or want to learn more about Native American history, this trilogy is a treasure trove of kno

On Saturday, October 17, the Goingsnake Historical District will host author James A. Humphrey for a special presentation at the Henderson Public Library in Westville, Oklahoma. Starting at 10:00 a.m., Humphrey will share insights from his acclaimed Cherokee Trilogy through a program titled “Bondage to Belonging? Cherokee Slavery and Freedmen Through the Lens of The Cherokee Trilogy.” This event offers a rare chance to consider a complex phase of Cherokee history that often r

When we explore the rich heritage of the Cherokee people, one of the most fascinating aspects is their use of cultural symbols. These symbols carry deep meanings, telling stories of identity, spirituality, and connection to the land. As someone who has spent time learning about Native American history, I find that understanding these symbols opens a window into the Cherokee worldview. It helps us appreciate their traditions and the values they hold dear. Cherokee cultural sym

The rich heritage of the Cherokee people is deeply woven with symbols that tell stories, convey beliefs, and preserve traditions. These symbols are more than just images; they are a language of their own, reflecting the values and history of the Cherokee Nation. As I explore these cultural emblems, I invite you to join me in uncovering their meanings and significance. Understanding these symbols offers a window into a world where nature, spirituality, and community intertwine

The rich heritage of the Cherokee people is deeply embedded in our symbols. These symbols are not just artistic expressions but carry profound meanings that reflect our culture, beliefs, and history. Understanding the meaning of Cherokee symbols opens a window into the spiritual and practical life of our tribe. This article explores the significance of these symbols, their uses, and how they continue to inspire and educate today. Exploring the Meaning of Cherokee Symbols Cher

The Cherokee people have a rich cultural heritage filled with meaningful symbols and flowers that tell stories of their history, beliefs,...

Native American storytelling is a rich and vibrant tradition that has been passed down through generations. These stories are more than...