Five Civilized Tribes, a book written by Grant Foreman, arbitrarily designates Seminoles, along with Choctaw, Chickasaw, Cherokee and Creek, civilized. Seminole cattle industry begins. First formal education at Brighton Indian Day School, opened by teachers William and Edith Boehmer. 1946 - Creation of United States Indian Claims Commission. 1947 - Seminole Indians file petition with Claims Commission for a settlement to cover lost lands.
Tribe gains federal status as the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
1962 - Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida gain federal recognition. 1971 - Howard Tommie elected Chairman. 1979 - James E. Billie elected Tribal Chairman. Bingo becomes biggest source of Tribal income. Immokalee, Tampa reservations established.