“The Iroquois Constitution” a foundation for the Constitution of the United States of America

Originally five separate tribes called the Five Nations– Seneca, Cayuga, Oneida, Onondaga, and Mohawk

Tuscarora was the sixth tribe added sometime after 1722 then known as the Six Nations

Fighting between the tribes put them at risk of attack by the Algonquin tribes

The tribes formed the Iroquois League to negotiate with foreign nations and resolve conflict among the tribes.

The tribes have a shared culture and similar languageToday the tribes fight for environmental protection and

increased recognition from the US and other governments

"The Iroquois Constitution" was first thought to have been written in the 1500's, but a newer theory believes it to be between 1090 and 1150 A.D. Five Nations that formed the Iroquois Confederation included the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca tribes.

The author uses imagery to help the reader picture what the author is describing. “Tree of the Great Peace.” Also called “The Tree of Great Long Leaves.

The Tree of Great Peace symbolizes:StrengthStabilityLongevity

The spreading of peace throughout the Native American Nations.

Unity—United together, but free to spread out.

Strength—without a strong root system the tree would fall.

Growth and nutrients—the nations “feed” the tree through the roots and it will then grow.

Perched atop the tree the eagle warns the nations of danger.

Guardian to the nations.Strength—an eagle is a predator bird it is

strong.Defense—an eagle will protect its territory

from attack.

All who see the smoke know the nations are allies to be seen by all men.

Fire symbolizes the importance of home and hearth.

Represents the Nations.The history of the constitution is recorded on

the shells.Respect and equality of the nations.

Leadership and authority to speak for the Nations.

One should not show weakness, but should be tough skinned, “proofed” or protected from human weakness.

Filled with peace and good will for the welfare of the people of all nations.

Represents being unselfish.