This paper discusses Wilma Mankiller, former Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, was the first female in modern history to lead a major Native American tribe. As the leader of the Cherokee people she represented the second largest tribe in the United States. With an enrolled population of over 140,000, and an annual budget of more than $75 million, and more than 1,200 employees spread over 7,000 square miles, her responsibilities could be considered equal to that of a chief executive officer of a major corporation. Initially, those not wishing to be led by a woman opposed her candidacy, and there were death threats against her during her campaign. But before long Mankiller would win the respect of the Cherokee Nation, and make an impact on the culture, by staying focused on her mission - to bring self-sufficiency to her people.
