Seminole Nation of Oklahoma

The Seminole nation came into existence in the 18th century and was composed of Native Americans from Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama, as well as African Americans who escaped from slavery in South Carolina and Georgia. Prior to that time, they were a part of the Creek Nation.

Most of the Seminoles were forced west of the Mississippi River, picking up new members along the way. Those who were relocated to Indian Territory in what is now Oklahoma, became the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma. Approximately approximately 300 to 500 Seminoles retreated into the Everglades of Florida and never surrendered to the United States government. The Seminoles of Florida call themselves the "Unconquered People." The Florida Seminoles are the only American Indian tribe never to have signed a formal peace treaty with the United States.

The Seminole Nation of Oklahoma has about 6,000 enrolled members, who are divided into fourteen bands. Two are called "Freedmen Bands" (also black seminole) because they count their descent from escaped slaves.