Miami Tribe of Oklahoma
The original home of the Miami was along the western side of Lake Michigan. The early Miami were divided into six bands. The Miami political structure was well organized. Each clan in a village elected a leader who represented them at council. This council of clan leaders elected a chair who became the village chief. Village councils sent their delegates to the band council. Delegates from the band council were sent to the tribal council. All these officials were elected on merit and were highly respected.
The Miami were mainly farmers. They were noted for the quality of their corn which ground into a very fine white meal. Other crops included melons, squash, pumpkins, and beans.
The flood of settlers moving in from the east created many problems and by 1827, the Miami lands were almost gone. Some Miami migrated to Kansas and later, after the Civil War, moved to Oklahoma.
About the Flag:
The blue color in the Miami seal represents peace and tranquility. The color red stands for courage. The twin tipis in the middle are arranged to spell out the word "Miami." The phrase "Mamque Pehkokia" translates into "together in peace." The white flag itself refers to the white burial flags used in Miami burial ceremonies.
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