The United Keetoowah Band and the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma share a common language, culture and history. But that's about where the similarities end.

The UKB was considered part of the larger CNO until it gained separate federal recognition in 1946. That didn't stop former CNO chief Wilma Mankiller from trying to erase the UKB's existence, The Daily Oklahoman reports.

Mankiller objected to UKB's federal funding in 1990 and a year later, a Congressional rider stopped the flow of money. She later tried to get UKB's federal status terminated but did not succeed.

UKB leaders have since been able to restore most of its funding be ensuring there is no dual enrollment. The tribe has a one-fourth blood quantum requirement. The Cherokee Nation enrolls lineal descendants.

Get the Story:
Friction still evident in two tribes' fight for separation (The Daily Oklahoman 3/15)
pwpwd

Relevant Links:
Cherokee Nation - http://www.cherokee.org