Shawnee Indians

Shawnee Proverb

Respect everyone, but lower yourself to no one.

Shawnee Quotes

Tecumseh (1768-1813) Shawnee Indian chief who led an intertribal alliance that resisted white rule.

Never trouble anyone regarding his religion—respect him in his beliefs, and demand that he respect yours

Tenskwatawa a.k.a. He-Who-Opens-The-Door (1768-1834) Leader and religious man also known as “The Prophet.” He was Tecumseh’s brother.

Tenskwatawa has never spoken a lie or an impurity, and never will

I have been shown how to open the door that has shut us out from joy.

I have been a slave to liquor since first I tasted it—but never again will I drink any.

Native American Wisdom

The Shawnee used to live in the Eastern and Midwestern United States. They performed many agriculture and warrior-related ceremonies, many of which involved dancing. Today, most Shawnee live in Oklahoma, and number about 5,000 people.