In Cherokee Nation: Proceed Undaunted, Chadwick “Corntassel” Smith delivers an unflinching look at the power struggles within Cherokee governance, exposing how political maneuvering, election manipulation, and financial interests have shaped leadership decisions.
The book dives into how campaign finance, gerrymandering, and voter suppression have played a role in Cherokee elections, sometimes distorting the democratic process. Smith highlights cases where political elites used their influence to maintain control, raising concerns about whether elections are truly representative of the Cherokee people’s will.
One of the book’s most thought-provoking sections discusses economic influence on politics. Smith warns that the Nation’s growing financial power—particularly through gaming and corporate enterprises—has allowed business interests to shape policies in ways that don’t always align with traditional Cherokee values. The question he poses is urgent: Can the Cherokee Nation maintain true self-governance if economic decisions are controlled by a small political elite?
Despite these critiques, the book is not pessimistic. Smith outlines clear solutions, advocating for constitutional reforms, increased election oversight, and greater transparency in governance. His recommendations make it clear that while challenges exist, the Cherokee Nation still has the power to protect its sovereignty—if its leaders and citizens take action. For those who want a deep dive into the intersection of politics, economics, and Indigenous governance, Proceed Undaunted is an eye-opening and necessary read
