Great Sun

Natchez ruler

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

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The Great Sun was the monarch of the Natchez people, a tribe who lived along the Mississippi River. Their society was structured into a caste system, with the Great Sun at the apex. This ruler was believed to be descended from the Sun, which was central to Natchez religious practices. The Great Sun held significant power, including the right to have multiple wives and servants. Upon his death, his wives and some servants were ritually sacrificed to accompany him in the afterlife. The Natchez were known for their agriculture, particularly corn, and their distinctive wattle-and-daub structures built on earthen mounds.1

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Natchez
…was referred to as the Great Sun. He was entitled to marry several wives and to maintain servants; upon his death his wives and some servants, along with any others who wished to join him in the afterlife, were ritually sacrificed.
Read More
…was referred to as the Great Sun. He was entitled to marry several wives and to maintain servants; upon his death his wives and some servants, along with any others who wished to join him in the afterlife, were ritually sacrificed.
Read More