Cherokee Phoenix Celebrates Nearly 200 Years

Quick Smiles:

• The Cherokee Phoenix was first published 198 years ago using a unique syllabary created by Sequoyah.
• It was the first newspaper in the US published by Native Americans and in a Native language.
• The paper is still in print today, continuing its legacy of storytelling and cultural pride.

The Cherokee Phoenix began publication 198 years ago, making history as the first Native American-run newspaper to use the Cherokee syllabary invented by Sequoyah. Sequoyah, a visionary leader, developed the written system from scratch, allowing the Cherokee community to read and write in their own language.

Originally, the paper printed content in both Cherokee and English, with free subscriptions for Cherokee readers and a small fee for English readers. Under the leadership of Elias Boudinot, the paper addressed important topics and gave a voice to the Cherokee during challenging times.

Though the paper stopped publication in 1835, it was reborn in the 20th century and continues today. A special 2013 project revived Cherokee syllabary printing at the original capital of New Echota for the first time in over 175 years, honoring its early legacy.

Take this bright moment to celebrate how history, language, and culture keep moving forward thanks to passionate people in every generation. Let the legacy of the Cherokee Phoenix spark your own story of perseverance and joy today!

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