The Haudenosaunee Confederacy, also known as the Iroquois Confederacy or the Six Nations, is one of the oldest participatory democracies in the world. Composed of six nations—Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora—the Haudenosaunee are the "People of the Longhouse," united by the Great Law of Peace.
Formation of the Confederacy
The Haudenosaunee Confederacy was established centuries before European contact in what is now New York State. According to their oral traditions, the Confederacy was formed under the guidance of the Peacemaker, a visionary leader who brought an end to conflict among the nations and introduced a unified governance system based on peace, equity, and collective decision-making.
At the heart of this governance system is the Great Law of Peace, a sophisticated constitution that emphasizes consensus, mutual respect, and the responsibilities of leaders to serve their people with wisdom and humility. This system inspired aspects of the U.S. Constitution, particularly its emphasis on federalism and participatory governance.
The Six Nations
Each nation within the Confederacy has its own unique cultural practices, language, and responsibilities within the collective. They are organized metaphorically within a longhouse, with the Seneca, known as the "Keepers of the Western Door," representing the westernmost nation and the Mohawk as the "Keepers of the Eastern Door." The Onondaga, centrally located, are the "Keepers of the Fire," serving as the political and spiritual center of the Confederacy.
In the early 18th century, the Tuscarora joined the Confederacy, migrating northward after being displaced from their ancestral lands in the Carolinas.
Significance of the Longhouse
The concept of the longhouse reflects Haudenosaunee values of unity and collective strength. The longhouse was not just a dwelling but a symbol of community and cooperation, with multiple families sharing space while maintaining mutual respect. This metaphor extends to their governance, emphasizing the interconnectedness and shared responsibilities of all nations within the Confederacy.
Legacy and Influence
The Haudenosaunee Confederacy has had a profound influence on the region’s history and the world. Their sophisticated system of governance, rich oral traditions, and commitment to sustainability provide valuable lessons that remain relevant today. Despite centuries of challenges, the Haudenosaunee continue to thrive, preserving their cultural heritage and advocating for their sovereignty and rights.
Haudenosaunee | Haudenosaunee Confederacy |
Traditional Territory & Relationship to Orleans County | Cultural Practices | Interaction with Early Settlers | Effects of Colonization | Current Presence and Revitalization | Notable Individuals and Stories | Educational Resources