Cherokee Script #17/100: A Journey Through 100 Writing Systems of the World

1. Script type: The Cherokee script is a syllabary, a writing system where each character represents a syllable. It is composed of a set of symbols that combine consonants and vowels to form syllabic units.

2. Writing direction: The Cherokee script is traditionally written in a left-to-right direction, similar to many scripts used in the Western world.

3. Creator and invention time: The Cherokee script was created by Sequoyah (also known as George Gist), a Cherokee silversmith and polymath. He developed the script in the early 19th century, with the invention officially completed in 1821.

4. Time period of use: The Cherokee script has been used since its creation in the early 19th century and continues to be employed today. The Cherokee script is actively used by the Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized Native American tribe primarily based in the southeastern United States. The Cherokee Nation and its citizens actively promote the preservation and use of the script.

5. Usage area: The Cherokee script is used by members of the Cherokee Nation, which spans portions of northeastern Oklahoma, western North Carolina, and parts of Georgia. It is an integral part of the Cherokee culture and is used in various contexts, including education, literature, and official documents.

6. Languages associated with the script: The Cherokee script is primarily associated with the Cherokee language, an Iroquoian language spoken by the Cherokee people. The script was specifically designed to represent the sounds of the Cherokee language and facilitate its written expression.

Interesting Facts:

1. Sequoyah's creation of the Cherokee script was a remarkable individual achievement, as he single-handedly developed a writing system without prior knowledge of writing or formal education.
2. The Cherokee script is unique among indigenous scripts in North America, as it is a complete syllabary capable of representing the full range of Cherokee language sounds.
3. When Sequoyah introduced the script to the Cherokee Nation, it was quickly embraced, leading to widespread literacy among Cherokee speakers within a few years.
4. The Cherokee Phoenix, the first newspaper published by a Native American tribe, was printed in both English and Cherokee using the Cherokee script.
5. The resilience of the Cherokee script is evident in its continued usage today, serving as a symbol of cultural pride, language preservation, and a means of passing down traditional knowledge to future generations.
6. Efforts to promote Cherokee language education and script literacy have led to the development of educational materials, online resources, and language immersion programs, ensuring the script's vitality and continuity.

The Cherokee script stands as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural strength of the Cherokee people. It not only preserves their language but also serves as a tangible link to their rich history and identity. As we explore the fascinating world of the Cherokee script, we gain a deeper appreciation for the power of writing systems in preserving cultural heritage and fostering linguistic diversity.