Description

16” x 24”

Indeed, “The Talking Leaves” refers to Sequoyah’s profound insight into the written language of the colonists and his subsequent creation of the Cherokee syllabary. Sequoyah, also known as George Guess or George Gist, was a Cherokee silversmith and warrior who lived during the early 19th century.

Inspired by the written communication he observed among European settlers, Sequoyah became determined to develop a writing system for the Cherokee language. Despite facing skepticism and challenges, including from some members of his own community, Sequoyah persisted in his efforts.

Drawing on his keen observation skills and his understanding of the phonetic nature of language, Sequoyah meticulously crafted a syllabary consisting of 85 characters representing syllables in the Cherokee language. This remarkable achievement enabled the Cherokee people to read and write in their own language for the first time.

The creation of the Cherokee syllabary, often referred to as “The Talking Leaves,” marked a significant milestone in Cherokee history. It empowered the Cherokee people to preserve their cultural heritage, record their history, and communicate more effectively with one another. It also played a crucial role in their efforts to resist forced assimilation by the United States government.

Sequoyah’s ingenuity and dedication have earned him enduring respect and admiration among the Cherokee people and beyond. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of innovation, perseverance, and cultural pride in the face of adversity. Today, the Cherokee syllabary remains in use, serving as a living testament to Sequoyah’s vision and the resilience of the Cherokee language and culture.