Choctaw

Prior to the well known WWII Navajo Code Talkers, Choctaw Code Talkers were vital in the victory of WWI! The idea was spawned directly on the battle field in France when two soliders were overheard talking to eachother. Nineteen brave Choctaw Men were immediately moved to the front lines and command posts to communicate without German interference leading the United States and its allies to victory.

In 1847 the Choctaw arrived in their newly appointed land in Oklahoma. Being the first of the Five Civilized Tribes (a group considered by the Europeans to be civilized) to endure the Trail of Tears however, did not prevent the Nation from showing compassion to others in what would prove to be a gesture that would not be forgotten.

During the 19th century Ireland, a great famine ravaged the country - Irish Potato Famine. A million people died and millions more fled to foreign lands to escape 'the bad life'. It was at the height of the famine in 1847 that the Choctaw learned of the Irish hardship by way of Irish Campaigning in the United States. The Choctaw People having just endured the hardest of journeys, across hundreds of sq. kilometers experiencing their own losses and hunger. Donated what equates to nearly 5,000 Euros to Ireland to help feed, clothe and support those that were affected by the starvation. The cause of the famine- Mold growth on the potato leaf that then turned disease killing the crops.

The relationship that was built between the Choctaw and Irish over the decades has been coined as "Kindred Spirits". Two countries oceans apart that experienced similar hardships, fought similar battles and faced nearly identical language and cultural ruin were brought together by a simple act. Through this small act both have overcame their hardships and brought strength back to themselves and their future generations. Today the relationship between the Choctaw Nation and the Irish has flourished with representatives from each participating, supporting and paying homage to one another; from scholarships, commemorations to beautiful art and sports.

During the COVID pandemic, Navajo and Hopi native Americans were in peril, much like the generosity that was extended to the Irish by the Choctaw. Ireland helped the Navajo and Hopi by raising and donating over €2.5 million to help fight the pandemic. A new beginning begins...

Watch the short video to hear the Choctaw language being spoken and learn about the legend of how the Choctaw were first introduced to corn.