Ridge: Native American Vocabulary

Front

What is the Iroquois Confederacy?

Back

A political group of Native American groups (Cayuga, Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Seneca, and Tuscarora) founded in 1570.

Front

Who are the Iroquois?

Back

North American Indian people who lived in upstate New York.

Front

What is a longhouse?

Back

A house built by the Iroquois in which a number of families live.

Front

What is a clan mother?

Back

The head of a clan.

Front

What is a confederacy?

Back

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

Front

What is wampum?

Back

A traditional shell bead used by Native Americans, often used as a form of currency or for ceremonial purposes.

Front

What is a wigwam?

Back

A dome-shaped dwelling used by some Native American tribes, typically made of wooden frames covered with bark or mats.

Front

What role did sachems play in Iroquois society?

Back

Sachems were leaders or chiefs of the Iroquois tribes, responsible for making decisions and leading their people.

Front

What is the significance of the number five in the Iroquois Confederacy?

Back

The Iroquois Confederacy originally consisted of five nations: the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca.

Front

What is a clan?

Back

A group of families who share a common ancestor and are part of the same social unit.