There are a whole lot of historical factors that have played a part in our being where we are today, and I think that to even to begin to understand our contemporary issues and contemporary problems, you have to understand a little bit about that history.

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.