Asgaya-dihi
(Wilma Mankiller)

Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation in Tahlequah, Oklahoma (1985 - 1994), ASGAYA-DIHI means Mankiller in Cherokee. The Cherokees represent the second-largest tribe in Turtle Island (The United States), and ASGAYA-DIHI is the first female to lead a major Native American tribe. As stated by ASGAYA-DIHI in 1987 at Harvard University, "True tribal tradition recognizes the importance of women. Contrary to what you've probably read in history books, not all tribes were controlled by men."

Under her leadership, the Cherokee Nation developed a new education plan, Cherokee language and literacy projects, magnet schools, a comprehensive healthcare system and extensive youth services. Wilma Mankiller was also instrumental in the settlement of old land claims, initiating tribal taxation, housing reform, environmental protection and furthering the Cherokee Nation's economic development.