The Five Civilized Tribes in the Civil War
As the Southern States seceeded from the Union in 1861, Indian Territory, now known as the state of Oklahoma, also felt the turmoil of the South. The Five Civilized Tribes had wanted to stay neutral, but, finally decided to side with the Confederate States of America. Some in the Nations stayed loyal to the Union, so, as elsewhere, the Indian Nations in Indian Territory were divided.
The Cherokees
Chief John Ross- wanted the Cherokees to remain neutral.
Stand Waite- Opponet of John Ross in the Cherokee Nation. Organized a regiment to fight for the Confederacy, against the chief's wishes, immediately after the war began.
The majority of Cherokees eventually sided with the Confederacy after attempts by Chief Ross to convince the nation's people that neutrality was best failed. Another contributing factor was that the Union abandoned Indian Territory, but the confederacy offered protection.
The Creeks and Seminoles
These tribes were split but, eventually the majority of them joined the confederacy.
Seminoles - 1/3 remained loyal to the Union under John Chupco, they moved to Kansas.
Other 2/3- Fought for John Jumper in support of the South.
Creeks- Remained split, majority fought for the South.
The majority of the tribe fought for the South
Choctaw Civil War Gun Boat
The Chickasaws
Sided with the South were the last confederate government to surrender to Union forces.