A lot of young girls have looked to their career paths and have said they'd like to be chief. There's been a change in the limits people see.

Mankiller Wilma Vine Deloria Jr. Norman: University of Oklahoma Press 2008. Such a structure contrasted with the traditional Cherokee culture and value system which tended to include both sexes in leadership positions though in somewhat different capacities.

She served as principal chief for ten years from 1985 to 1995.