Among the Tsalagi there existed seven clans. Each clan, while not related by marriage, acted and behaved as a family. When trouble occured, the clan would handle it. There was no marriages within the clan for that would have been constued as incest.(marrying your sister/brother). These Clans were:
Ani Sahoni (Blue Clan) - Those belonging to this Clan made a medicine from a bluish colored plant to keep the children well. This Clan has also been known as the Panther or Wild Cat Clan.The Clan color for the Ani Sahoni is Blue.
Ani Gilohi (Long Hair Clan) - Those belonging to this Clan wore their hair in elaborate hairdos, walked in a proud and vain manner twisting their shoulders. This Clan has also been known as the Twister, Hair Hanging Down, and Wind Clan. The Clan color for the Ani Gilohi is Yellow.
Ani Tsiskwa (Bird Clan) - Those belonging to this Clan were the keepers of the birds and were skilled in using blowguns and snares for bird hunting. The Clan Color for the Bird Clan is Purple.
Ani Wodi (Paint Clan) - Those belonging to this Clan made red paint. The Clan Color for the Ani Wodi is White.
Ani Kawi (Deer Clan) - Those belonging to this Clan were the keepers of the deer and were fast runners and deer hunters. The Clan Color for the Ani Kawi is Brown.
Ani Gatogewi (Bear Clan) - Those belonging to this Clan were known as the "protectors" and "keepers" of the people. They were warriors. When known as the Wild Potato Clan they gathered the wild potato plants in swamps along streams for food. This Clan has also been known as the Raccoon, and Blind Savannah Clan. The Clan Color for the Ani Gatogewi is Green.
Ani Wahya (Wolf Clan) - Those belonging to this Clan were the keepers of the wolf and the only Clan that could kill a wolf. This was the largest and most prominent Clan. The Clan Color of the Ani Wahya is Red.
Sacred Colors of the Tsalagi
There are four Sacred Colors of the Tsalagi. Each color represents a direction and is associated with certain meanings. These colors are:
Red East Success/Triumph
White South Peace/Happiness
Black West Death
Blue North Defeat/Trouble
