“Great Smoky Mountains’ Highest Peak to Reclaim Cherokee Name Kuwohi” 2024-09-18

The highest peak in the is set to return to its original Cherokee name, Kuwohi. This change comes over 150 years after the peak was named in honor of a Confederate general by a surveyor. The decision to revert to the indigenous name reflects a growing recognition of the cultural significance of the Cherokee language and heritage in the region.

Cherokee language and place names Confederate general name controversy Smoky Mountains cultural heritage of Cherokee in Smoky Mountains Great Smoky Mountains highest peak name change Great Smoky Mountains National Park peak renaming history of Smoky Mountains peak naming impact of name changes on cultural identity importance of indigenous names in national parks Kuwohi Cherokee name significance Kuwohi peak historical background

Question 1: What is the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

Answer: The highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Kuwohi, which is the official Cherokee name for the mountain.

Question 2: Why is the peak reverting to its Cherokee name?

Answer: The peak is reverting to its Cherokee name to honor the indigenous heritage and history of the area, more than 150 years after it was named after a Confederate general by a surveyor.

Question 3: How long has it been since the peak was originally named after a Confederate general?

Answer: It has been more than 150 years since the peak was originally named after a Confederate general.

Question 4: What significance does the name Kuwohi hold?

Answer: The name Kuwohi holds cultural and historical significance as it reflects the Cherokee heritage and connection to the land in the region.

Question 5: What does this name change represent in terms of cultural recognition?

Answer: This name change represents a step towards recognizing and honoring the indigenous peoples and their contributions to the history and culture of the Smoky Mountains region.