Cherokee

Europe's song 'Cherokee' is a poignant reflection on the tragic history of the Cherokee Nation, particularly focusing on the Trail of Tears. The lyrics recount the story of the Cherokee people who once lived in peace but were later deceived and displaced due to the insatiable greed of white settlers during the 19th century. The 'winds of change' mentioned in the song symbolize the unstoppable force of colonial expansion that brought about the suffering and betrayal of the Native American tribes.

The chorus, 'Cherokee - marching on the trail of tears,' refers to the forced relocation of the Cherokee people from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to designated Indian Territory in present-day Oklahoma. This event, known as the Trail of Tears, resulted in the death and suffering of thousands of Cherokee due to exposure, disease, and starvation. The song captures the sense of loss and hopelessness felt by the Cherokee, as they realized that the promises made to them were nothing but lies. The repeated lines about having 'no place to return' and 'nowhere they could turn' emphasize the depth of their despair and the finality of their displacement.

By bringing attention to this historical atrocity through their music, Europe not only pays tribute to the resilience of the Cherokee people but also criticizes the actions and consequences of colonial greed. The song serves as a reminder of the injustices faced by indigenous populations and the importance of acknowledging and learning from the darker chapters of history.