The Cherokee culture that existed traditionally was created in thousands of years thanks to the close relationship to the land, strong community, and the spiritual values accepted by the community. Cherokee people did not make a distinction between daily life and culture. Anything, be it farming, cooking, house construction, or education of children, had cultural meaning. Balance, cooperation and respect were the basis of organization of life. These principles influenced the way the Cherokee societies evolved and how people perceived their place in the society.

The Cherokee villages were usually located in rivers and fertile areas enabling communities to cultivate their crops and get fresh water. The basis of the life of Cherokee was agriculture. Some of the main crops that were grown included corn, beans, squash and sunflowers. These were crops that were well nurtured based on the generational knowledge. Farming was not simply labor. It was a collective duty that got the relationships stronger in the community. Fishing, hunting, and gathering were used to complement agriculture. Both men and women took part in food production and this had different roles depending on the needs in the community. Preservation of food was also done by drying and storage to help in survival during colder seasons. Meals were regularly made and eaten communally and unity was strengthened by this.

The Cherokee houses were both functional and traditional. The summer houses were mostly circular in shape and were constructed using wooden frames and clay walls which gave it a ventilated building. Winter houses were better heated and sealed to keep the heat in. The homes were meant to be functional, durable and environmental-appropriate. The villages were also characterized by social places where individuals used to meet in meetings, rituals, and celebrations.

The Cherokee society was based on the family and kinship. Due to the extended families, living was often very close as they assisted each other in their day to day activities. The seniors were respected as instructors and counselors. The decision of the community was based on their life experience and knowledge. Children were taught through observation and were involved into daily activities. Other than in formal classrooms, education was done by way of through the practical experience and stories. As they grew, young people acquired skills in farming, crafting, cooking and hunting among others.

Religious ideologies were also incorporated in daily living. Cherokee individuals held the view that there was an interconnection between human beings, animals, plants, and natural forces. Nature was considered to be alive and was thought to have a spirit.. These rituals ensured that there was balance and harmony in the society.

The garments were customarily tailored out of animal hides and plant fibers. Beads, feathers and shells were used as decorative features. Such decorations were not purely aesthetic. They had symbolic representations in terms of identity, belongingness to a clan and spiritual beliefs.

Crafts and arts were incorporated into everyday life. Beadwork, pottery, basket weaving and carving were not only utilitarian but also meant the articulation of cultural identity. Designs used to be depicted in the form of nature or divine ideas.

The leadership in the community was based on service and not authority. Leaders were selected based on their wisdom, fairness and leading ability. The process of decision making was usually discussed and agreed upon.

The Cherokee culture used to be traditional, which was constructed based on respect, cooperation and responsibility. Such values contributed to the prosperity of communities through the generations.