As an expert in the field of cultural studies and Native American history, I am well-versed in the contemporary presence and distribution of various indigenous peoples, including the Cherokee. The Cherokee people, one of the largest and most historically significant Native American tribes, have a rich and complex history that continues to influence their current status and location.

The Cherokee Nation is the largest federally recognized tribe of Cherokee people in the United States. It has a significant presence in the state of Oklahoma, where it governs a large jurisdictional area that spans approximately 7,000 square miles across fourteen counties in northeastern Oklahoma. It is important to note that this area is not a reservation but rather a jurisdictional area that the Cherokee Nation has authority over. This distinction is crucial as it reflects the tribe's sovereignty and the unique relationship it has with the federal government.

In addition to the Cherokee Nation, there is another federally recognized group known as the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This group maintains a distinct presence in the southeastern United States, specifically within the Qualla Boundary in western North Carolina. The Qualla Boundary encompasses approximately 56,000 acres and is a designated area where the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians exercises its sovereignty and self-governance.

Both the Cherokee Nation and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians have thriving communities that continue to preserve and promote their cultural heritage. They engage in various activities to ensure the continuity of their traditions, language, and customs. This includes educational initiatives, cultural events, and economic development projects that benefit their members and contribute to the broader society.

Moreover, the Cherokee people are actively involved in the political landscape, advocating for their rights and interests at both the state and federal levels. They also participate in intertribal organizations and collaborate with other indigenous groups on issues of common concern.

In summary, the Cherokee people today are a vibrant and diverse community with a significant presence in two main areas of the United States: the jurisdictional area of the Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma and the Qualla Boundary of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina. They continue to assert their sovereignty, maintain their cultural identity, and contribute to the rich tapestry of American society.

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The federally recognized Cherokee Nation has a 7,000 square mile jurisdictional area in fourteen counties of Northeastern Oklahoma. It is not a reservation. The Eastern Band of Cherokee, also recognized by the federal government, holds 56,000 acres within the Qualla Boundary of western North Carolina.read more >>