System of Government

The social system of the Southeastern Creeks centered on local community and would apply with variations to village, tribe, band or clan of the early Creeks. As with many native peoples, there was no centralized authority or body that spoke for the nation as a whole, but rather a loose confederation of independent governments united to live in peace and for the common defense.

"For a supposedly primitive people, the Creeks had a surprisingly complex and well-organized society" - Winn, the Old Beloved Path

This local, organized process of self-government (previously unknown to Europeans) gave voice to all and fostered a strong sense of personal responsibility. During the Mississippian period, the power of kings or emperors was absolute. Leadership was passed through family ascension, most notably within the Wind Clan. Later as the People reorganized into a new system, qualifications for leadership were most certainly based upon proven wisdom, skill and ability. Once selected, chiefs and headmen were given a high degree of honor and respect, but they never held absolute power. Chiefs were subject to being replaced if they failed to serve the community well though the first democratically elected leaders would not come until the 20th Century. A village community might have several chiefs who served in different capacities. For example the principal chief might be responsible for the overall well being of the village, while another might assist in settling small disputes. The war chief would be selected for his leadership skills in activities related to war and defense.

Typically, the leadership council of a town met regularly to attend to business of the community. If a major problem arose, the principal chief might call a council of the entire village. In council, each member would state, without interruption, his ideas and opinions on the subject. After each was heard, the chief would then consider the thoughts of all and make a final judgment. Punishment for wrong-doing was swift and harsh, and as a result there were few infractions of community laws. The long-range impact of any decision was always a major consideration. Before any action was taken, the final decision would be considered by the wise women of the village who would voice their concerns about the well being of the village from their perspective.

A simple example: Suppose warriors from another group were encroaching upon the town's hunting territory which, if not defended, could seriously impact available game for the winter. At the urging of the young warriors, perhaps eager for the chance to prove them in war, a determination might be considered to leave right away to defend the hunting grounds. But when the women hear the plan, they point out that the corn crop is almost ready, and every hand will be needed for the harvest. They recommend a delay until the immediate needs are taken care of, which is respected and the best interests of the community have been served.

Religious Beliefs

Down through the ages, Creek values, world view and way of life have been based on a religious tradition every bit as valuable, complex and sacred as any of the world's religions. Religious expression was an integral part of daily life within the community and guided the Peoples' relationships with one another as well as their respect for every part of the natural world. The belief system of the Creeks requires everyone in the community to live in harmony and keep in balance with nature.

 “Because white men thought they had dominion over nature, the Indians viewed them as a profoundly immoral and ignorant people. They thought, in short, that they were savages” - Winn, the Old Beloved Path

Ceremony served as a great unifying force within the community and is the most important religious expression among Creek Indian people.  Only those dedicated few who have shown the wisdom, and understanding to earn the honor are given the knowledge to conduct ceremonies. Every part of ceremony, including the fasting, the oration, and the dances are held with the deepest moral and religious significance.

The Green Corn Ceremony which lasts four to eight days, is the most important ceremonial event of the year. It is the annual New Year Harvest Celebration and is held in late summer during the time the new corn becomes ripe. Called, the "Posketv," (or simply "Busk") which means "to fast" the Green Corn Ceremony is regarded as a great peace ceremonial as it marks the time of community renewal.  Among individuals, this is the time when differences are settled, wrongs righted and forgiveness shared.   All transgressions against the well-being of the community,  except murder or other serious crimes, are settled and forgiven.  Thus, the community slate is wiped clean for the next year. 

Children of One Fire During the annual Posketv, the ceremonial square is cleaned and a new fire prepared.  The ceremonial Fire is extremely important as a symbol of Creator.  Four logs are placed radiating out from the center in the four cardinal directions.  In solemn ceremony, a new fire is kindled at the center.  As an expression of the ‘oneness’ of the community, coals from the ceremonial fire are then carried to each household where old fires have been extinguished, the hearths cleaned and prepared to begin anew.  The final event of the Green Corn Celebration is a great feast.  At the newly kindled home fires, the women prepare a variety of dishes from the fresh new corn to be enjoyed by all.