Elijah Scherer

Title: Native American Code Talkers during WW2: Origins, Execution, and Multitribal Contributions

Abstract: This project and exhibit, Code Talkers, examines the role of Native American code talkers during World War ll, highlighting their critical contributions to securing U.S. military communication networks. While the Navajo code talkers are the most widely documented, members of other Native American nations-including the Comanche, Ho-Chunk, Choctaw and Cree-also served in this capacity. This research reveals the significance of the use of indigenous languages in reducing the risk of interception in key military campaigns. In addition to evaluating their tactical effectiveness, this project explores how the prominence of the Navajo code talkers has overshadowed the contributions of other Native nations. By acknowledging the broader history of code talkers, this exhibit emphasizes both their tactical importance in wartime communications and the full scope of Native American participation.