Famous Native Americans

Native Americans have been an integral part of the culture of USA. In fact, they are the original inhabitants of this huge continent and their struggle to save the land from the clutches of foreign intruders forms the core of American history. The contributions of native Americans in modern-day USA has also been substantial.

Famous Native Americans in History

There are many important personalities with native American origin. The history of native American Indians that we know today, starts from the earlier period when colonization had started and traces down to the modern times when the native Americans have to stay content, living in small colonies (Indian reservations) in their own land. Profiles of these famous personalities also helps gain some insight into the native American culture.

Black Hawk: He belonged to the American Indian tribe called 'Sauk'. Black Hawk was born on 3rd October, 1767 in Sauknek, Illinois. He was the war chief of Sauks and was also known by his Indian name, Makataimeshekiakiak. Black Hawk supported the British in the War of 1812.

Sacagawea: There is very little, authentic information about Sacagawea. She is known to have belonged to the 'Lemhi Shoshone' band of America. Sacagawea was born in the year 1788 (circa.) The Lemhi river valley and upper regions of Salmon river (Idaho) were the areas where these people lived. Sacagawea played an important role, that of an interpreter and guide in the 'Lewis and Clark Expedition'.

Sitting Bull: Born in the year 1831 (circa.), Sitting Bull was a holy man belonging to the Hunkpapa branch of the Lakota Sioux tribe. He was well-known for leading his tribesmen against policies of the US government. Victory in the 'Battle of the Little Bighorn' against Col. George Armstrong Custer was one of the major achievements of Sitting Bull. The Indian agency police killed Sitting Bull on 15th December 1890 when they were making an attempt to arrest him.

Pocahontas: One of the most famous native American names, Pocahontas was the daughter of Powhatan, an Algonquian Indian chief. She was born in the year 1595 (circa.) The name Pocahontas means, a frolicsome and playful girl. It is said that Pocahontas saved the life of an Englishman, Captain John Smith while he was attacked by native Americans. She helped in maintaining cordial relations between the native Americans and English settlers. Later, she traveled to England and converted to Christianity. Pocahontas died on 21st March, 1617.

Sequoyah: A silversmith by profession, Sequoyah belonged to a native American tribe, Cherokee. He is credited with the development of Cherokee syllabary which enabled tribal people to read and write. Sequoyah's exact year of birth is not known however, he is said to have been born in the 1770s decade. Sequoayah drew inspiration from English people in his work of developing the Cherokee writing system.

Gall: Gall was a leader of the Lakota tribe and his main role includes that of serving as a commander in the 'Battle of Little Bighorn'. In this war, he served as the deputy of Sitting Bull and led the Native American cavalry forces. The birthplace of Gall is said to be today's South Dakota and he was born around 1840. Gall though played an important role in war against US army, he is said to have quarreled with Sitting Bull over some issues and moved to Canada thereafter.

Here is a list of well-known native Americans from the past:

• Indian WillIshi
• Touch the Clouds
• Squanto
• White Eyes
• Tichkematse (Squint Eyes)
• Chief Tecumseh
• Satanta
• Red Cloud

Today's Famous Native Americans

Here is a short account of native Americans of modern-day USA. Contributions of these native Americans in the development of USA indicates that they have become an important part of the American population.

John Herrington: The first native American to walk in space, John Herrington is an astronaut from the Chickasaw nation. He was born on 14th September, 1958. Herrington who was aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavor, carried with him the national flag of Chikasaw and many other things including six eagle feathers, two arrowheads and a sweetgrass braid.

Charlene Teters: She belongs to the Spokane Nation and is credited with bringing up issues related to racism faced by the native Americans. Born in 1952 (Spokane, Washington) Charlene Teters is an artist and educator. Charlene Teters has opposed the use of mascots having Native American connections. This active opposition was demonstrated by her in the University of Illinois where she graduated with a Master of Fine Arts degree.

Graham Greene: The acting career of Graham Greene has spanned over a period of 30 years. He is one of the most famous native American actors. The most notable achievements of Graham Greene is the nomination for his role in 'Dancing with Wolves' as Kicking Bird. He has also acted in television series like the 'Northern Exposure'.

Here is a list of well-known native Americans from modern times:

• Chief G. Anne Richardson
• Ben Nighthorse Campbell
• Chad 'Corntassel' Smith
• Peterson Zah Dine
• Tom Cole
• Wilma Mankiller
• Winona LaDuke
• Dr. John Woodenlegs, Sr.
• Steve Reevis
• Russell Means
• Roberta Blackgoat
• N. Scott Momaday

The list of famous native Americans provided in the article covers personalities from the historical times as well as modern America. This information gives a rough idea of famous American Indians who have contributed greatly in the development of America.