Ridge: Native American Vocabulary

Front

What is a wigwam?

Back

A wigwam is a house built for the Algonquians for one family.

Front

Who are the Algonquians?

Back

The Algonquians are North American Indian people that lived in downstate New York.

Front

What is a sachem?

Back

A sachem is the leader of the Algonquian village.

Front

What is the Iroquois Confederacy?

Back

The Iroquois Confederacy is a political group of Native American groups (Cayuga, Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Seneca, and Tuscarora) founded in 1570.

Front

What does confederacy mean?

Back

A confederacy is a group of people who join together to help each other; a league of persons, groups, or states.

Front

What is a longhouse?

Back

A longhouse is a type of dwelling used by some Native American tribes, particularly the Iroquois, that can house multiple families.

Front

What is wampum?

Back

Wampum is a traditional shell bead used by Native Americans as a form of currency and for ceremonial purposes.

Front

What is a clan mother?

Back

A clan mother is a respected elder woman in a Native American community who has significant influence and responsibility.

Front

What is the significance of the Iroquois?

Back

The Iroquois were a powerful group of Native American tribes known for their political organization and influence in early American history.

Front

What is the role of a sachem in a Native American village?

Back

The sachem serves as the leader and decision-maker for the village, guiding the community in governance and conflict resolution.