<P> Ghigau (Cherokee: ᎩᎦᎤ) or Agigaue (Cherokee: ᎠᎩᎦᎤᎡ) is a Cherokee prestigious title meaning "beloved woman" or "war woman". </P> <P> The title was a recognition of great honor for women who made a significant impact within their community or exhibited great heroism on the battlefield . When a woman was bestowed as a Ghigau she was given great honor and responsibility . The role has changed in Cherokee culture, but the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians still have Beloved Women today . </P> <P> The Ghigua title was given to extraordinary women by the Cherokee clans, and the title of great honor and responsibility was held for life . The Cherokees believed that the Great Spirit frequently spoke through the Ghigau . The Ghigau headed the Council of Women and held a voting seat in the Council of Chiefs . She was given the responsibility of prisoners and would decide their fate . </P>

What role did the beloved woman have in the cherokee tribe