Cherokee Justice System and Laws

The video explores the evolution of Cherokee justice from clan-based systems to written laws. Initially, justice was maintained through clan structures, emphasizing balance and peacefulness. Blood law, a form of clan justice, required retribution to maintain balance. Over time, the Cherokee moved towards written laws, abolishing blood law in 1810, marking a shift towards constitutional governance. Despite this, some traditional practices persisted into the mid-1800s.

What was the primary basis of the Cherokee justice system before written laws?

• A centralized government

• Clan structure

• Individual decision-making

• Religious leaders

What concept was central to maintaining peace in Cherokee justice?

• Tohi

• Fear

• Wealth

• Power

What was the purpose of blood law in Cherokee society?

• To accumulate wealth

• To maintain balance

• To expand territory

• To enforce religious beliefs

How was the decision to enact blood law typically reached?

• By a single leader

• Through a vote

• By consensus through the clan system

• By random selection

What significant change occurred in Cherokee law in 1808?

• A new religious practice was adopted

• First written law was established

• Introduction of a new clan

• A new language was developed

What did the second written law in 1810 accomplish?

• It expanded the territory

• It abolished blood law

• It introduced new clans

• It changed the language

What was a major factor leading to the creation of written laws in the Cherokee Nation?

• Internal clan disputes

• A natural disaster

• A new religious movement

• Pressure from external forces

What continued practice was seen as an extension of blood law in the mid-1800s?

• Building new settlements

• Executing Treaty of Nui Chota signers

• Signing new treaties

• Adopting new languages

What was the outcome of the Treaty of Nui Chota for some of its signers?

• They were promoted

• They were rewarded

• They were executed

• They were exiled

What marked the transition from clan-based justice to a constitutional government in Cherokee history?

• The discovery of new lands

• The establishment of written laws

• The signing of a peace treaty

• The introduction of new clans