iroquois league
Proper noun A historical and political confederation of Native American tribes in the northeastern region of North America. Originally formed by five nations (Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca), it was later joined by a sixth (Tuscarora). The league is renowned for its sophisticated system of governance and its significant role in colonial-era diplomacy and warfare.
The term "Iroquois League" is used to refer to the confederacy itself, its political structure, and its historical and cultural legacy. * The Iroquois League, also known as the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, was a powerful force in the region. * Scholars study the democratic principles embedded in the constitution of the Iroquois League. * The formation of the Iroquois League brought a period of stability and strength to its member nations.
- "The Great Law of Peace": This refers to the oral constitution and founding narrative of the Iroquois League, which outlined its governmental and social principles.
- In historical discourse, the league is often cited as an influential model for representative democracy.
- Haudenosaunee: The name the peoples of the confederacy call themselves, meaning "People of the Longhouse." This term is often used interchangeably with "Iroquois League."
- Five Nations: The original members of the league before 1722.
- Six Nations: The confederacy after the Tuscarora joined in 1722.
- Iroquois: A broader term that can refer to the member peoples, their languages, or the confederacy itself.
- Haudenosaunee Confederacy
- Six Nations (post-1722)
- Five Nations (pre-1722)
- Iroquois Confederacy
- Longhouse: The traditional dwelling and a powerful symbol of the league, representing the unity of the nations under one roof.
- Grand Council: The central governing body of the league, composed of hereditary chiefs (sachems) from the member nations.
- Wampum: Shell beads used ceremonially and to record treaties and agreements, integral to the diplomacy of the league.
- a league of Iroquois tribes including originally the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga and Seneca (the Five Nations); after 1722 they were joined by the Tuscarora (the Six Nations)