Iroquois Culture

General Information The Iroquois were the most important native group in North American history. There is little to distinguish them from other groups Their political system set them apart Europeans learned a great deal from their political system (checks, balances, and supreme law)

Who has the power? Iroquois society had a matrilineal structure Leaders were chosen by the women Three clans: Turtle, Bear, and Wolf Each headed by a Clan Mother After marriage men moved in with the women. Children became part of her clan. Women owned and tended the land.

Iroquois Life Farmers: Agriculture provided much of their diet Corn, beans and squash were known as “deohako” or “life supporters.” Villages were generally fortified and large Villages were permanent. They only moved for defensive purposes or when the soil became exhausted. Men would hunt during the fall. Men would be responsible for clearing the fields and building the village.

War Men’s primary purpose was warfare. They were conquerors Warriors wore their hair in a scalplock. Iroquois were forbidden to kill each other. The Great Law of Peace. Conquer and assimilate other tribes.

Interesting Facts Men were clean shaven. Women were not. Tattoos were common for both sexes. Torture and ritual cannibalism were common