I have a question was Osceola a Seminole chief? My book says:"He had no claim on hereditary leadership among the Seminole, but his determination and charisma soon attracted a large following." When I google it it says he wasn't a chief on some sites and on others it says he was. Any idea where I can find the correct answer? Thanks

Osceola was not a chief.

http://www.semtribe.com/History/OsceolaandAbiaka.aspx

Thanks very much. So he was only a famous warrior.

Yes. He was also a highly respected leader,

To find the correct answer to your question about whether Osceola was a Seminole chief, you can use the following steps:

1. Cross-reference multiple reliable sources: Start by gathering information from different sources such as books, scholarly articles, reputable websites, and historical archives. Look for consensus among these sources to establish the most accurate answer.

2. Consult reputable historical books: Check out books written by historians or experts in Native American history, specifically those that focus on the Seminole tribe. Some well-regarded authors in this field include William C. Sturtevant, John K. Mahon, and Billy L. Cypress. Their works might provide a comprehensive and authoritative account of Osceola's role within the Seminole tribe.

3. Utilize academic databases: Access academic databases like JSTOR, Google Scholar, or ProQuest to search for scholarly articles written by historians or researchers who have studied the Seminole tribe. These articles often reference primary sources and can provide valuable insights into Osceola's leadership status.

4. Visit reputable historical websites: Look for websites backed by reputable historical organizations, museums, or educational institutions, as these sources often have curated and well-researched information. Examples include the National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution, or the Florida Museum.

5. Consider primary sources: Primary sources include documents, diaries, letters, and firsthand accounts from the time period in question. If available, reading primary sources relating to Osceola can provide a direct understanding of his role and leadership within the Seminole tribe. Many primary sources are available in archives, libraries, or digital collections.

By following these steps and consulting multiple reliable sources, you should be able to find a more definitive answer regarding Osceola's status as a Seminole chief. Remember to critically evaluate the sources you find, considering the credibility, expertise, and consensus among them.