Cherokee Nation History Course

Explore the Story — Told by Former Principal Chief Chad Smith

Dive into one of the most complex and compelling Indigenous histories in the United States. The Cherokee Nation History Course offers a deep and balanced understanding of Cherokee history — legally, socially, culturally, and politically — from a Cherokee perspective.

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This acclaimed course has been honored by Harvard University's "Honoring Nations" program for its outstanding contribution to expanding knowledge of tribal sovereignty and governance.

Originally developed by former Principal Chief Chad Smith and later expanded by Dr. Julia Coates, an anthropologist, ethnohistorian, and current  Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor, this course has reached over 10,000 participants — including tribal citizens, university students, museum professionals, and elected officials. Many have described it as "life changing."

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The Cherokee PINS Project will be offering the course again soon. In the meantime, we invite you to explore our growing digital archive, view past lectures, check important upcoming dates, and learn more about the course’s future offerings. Stay connected as we continue to support tribal civic education and the understanding of Cherokee sovereignty.

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Whether you're Cherokee or simply seeking to understand Indigenous history more deeply, this course is a powerful journey through the enduring story of the Cherokee Nation.