Chota was a leading Overhill Cherokee town on the Little Tennessee River that rose beside Tanasi in the mid-18th century and became the Cherokee political center in the region. Under Old Hop, it surpassed Great Tellico and drew British attention during the French and Indian War. Henry Timberlake recorded a substantial settlement there in 1761, and several prominent Cherokee leaders were associated with it, including Attakullakulla, Oconostota, Old Hop, Old Tassel, Hanging Maw, and Nancy Ward. Chota declined after warfare in the late 18th century, especially following its destruction in 1780. Archaeological excavations later revealed major remains, though most of the site now lies beneath Tellico Lake.