Passing historic accounts from one generation to the next evolved differently in Chickasaw culture than in European-based societies.  Although the Chickasaw developed some basic writing to mark territory and leave simple messages, oral tradition prevailed as the means of preserving history.  By word-of-mouth and over centuries, Chickasaw ancestors have conveyed the historic accounts they felt most important for future generations to know.

Chickasaws maintained the inner qualities that define them as a people through their oral history.  Continuing this tradition is as important to tribal well-being as genetic proliferation.  By passing on these stories and accounts to succeeding generations, the Chickasaw Nation's cultural survival is ensured.

Thanks to the efforts of dedicated oral historians, visionary Chickasaw language speakers and those who choose to seek them out, new generations will learn their tribe's oral history in Chickasaw and English.