The Case:
A Texan of Cherokee descent inherits a mysterious bible from her father.
Having grown up speaking only English, she is intrigued by what appears to be Cherokee writing in the bible, and wants to learn more about her own family's history.
This native language was "invented" by a Cherokee Indian named Sequoyah in the early 1800s in a desperate effort to win the respect of the U.S. authorities for his people.
While Sequoyah succeeded in establishing literacy rates far in excess of the encroaching white settlers, the Cherokee were ultimately forced to march on the infamous "Trail of Tears" to Oklahoma.
History Detectives learns more about one of the most tragic events in U.S. history as they head to Oklahoma and Tennessee to tackle the genealogical mystery behind our contributor's bible.
Related Content
Related Links
Explore
-
Also with Gwen Wright Isleton Tong Was this building a safe haven for persecuted immigrants, or a hub for organized crime?
-
Also with Gwen Wright Spybook What does this little black book reveal about spying on the home front during World War I?
-
Also with Elyse Luray 1775 Almanac What do these crumbling pages reveal about divided loyalties during the American Revolution?
-
Also in Expansion: 1801-1861 Lafitte's Spyglass Did this spyglass really belong to a fearless cutthroat pirate?
-
Also in Expansion: 1801-1861 Carson Family Secrets Is this book a Carson family heirloom?
-
Also in Expansion: 1801-1861 Quaker Map Did this faded map once guide slaves to freedom on the underground railroad?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.