Billy Osceola
Billy Osceola | |
|---|---|
Billy Osceola, first chief (position later called chairman) of the Seminole Tribe of Florida in traditional native garb | |
| Seminole Tribe of Florida leader | |
| In office 1957–1966 | |
| 1st Tribal Council Chairman | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 4, 1920 Everglades, Broward County, Florida |
| Died | August 1, 1974 (aged 54) Boynton Beach, Florida |
| Spouse |
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| Mother tongue | Mikasuki language |
Billy Osceola, (July 4, 1920 – August 1, 1974) was the first elected chief of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. He became an ordained minister and was extremely influential in shifting the Seminole Tribe of Florida from traditional spiritual practices to the Baptist faith. He was the first elected chairman of the tribe after their 1957 reorganization.