The Muscogee language, also known as Creek or Muscogee (Mvskoke in Muscogee), is a Muskogean language spoken by Muscogee (Creek), and the Seminole, primarily in the U.S. states of Oklahoma and Florida.
Historically the language was spoken by various constituent groups of the Muscogee or Maskoki in what are now Alabama and Georgia. It is related to, but not mutually intelligible with, the other primary language of the Muscogee confederacy, Hitchiti/Miccosukee spoken by the kindred Miccosukee (Mikasuki), as well as other Muskogean languages.
Muscogee people first brought the Muscogee and Miccosukee languages to Florida in the early 18th century where they would eventually became known as the Seminoles. In the 19th century, however, the US government forced most Muscogees and Seminoles to relocate west of the Mississippi River, with many forced into Indian Territory.
Today, the language is spoken by around 4,000 people, the majority of whom live in Oklahoma and are members of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma. Around 200 speakers are Florida Seminoles. Seminole usage of the language constitutes distinct dialects.
Read more about Muscogee Language: Phonology, Orthography, Language Programs, Seminole Dialects
Famous quotes containing the word language:
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—Jennie Carolyn Van Ness (b. c. 1890–?)