1. Similarities and Differences amongst the Three First Nations
Grade7 Social Studies

2. Mi’kmaq Farmed fresh-water fish
Young women could not participate in general meetings
Had a chosen leader called a “Saqamaw” who was advised by a Council of Elders”
Had a Grand Council also managed relations with the other First Nations.
Lived close to the coast in the summer and forest during winter

3. Anishinabe Had different camps for summer and winter
Men and women were involved in decision making

4. Haudenosaunee
Built longhouses for year-round settlements; did not move with the seasons.
Were farmers and grew crops.
Women had a great deal of influence in decision making. They could have the male leader replaced if the failed to perform his duties.

5. Similarities Among All Three
Political decisions were made as a group
Leaders held authority by general agreement and not by force
Used technologies to make life easier (eg snowshoes)
Men hunted and fished and women gathered food such as berries and roots. Women also tended and harvested crops.

6. Similarities Among All Three
There was no accumulation of wealth
Made alliances for trade, defense and to make peace.
Were spiritual and believed in a Creator.

7. Characteristics of a Leader
A good leader is a good listener. Leaders gather input from several sources before they make a final decision. Decisions affect people in different ways so it is very important to listen to all points of view.
A leader must have an open heart and an open mind. They must not let their own personal beliefs be the main contributing factor.

8. Characteristics of a Leader
A leader must respect everyone and all things and lead by example
A leader must be trustworthy. When people trust you, they follow you.
A leader must consider what is best for the group as a whole and not just certain individuals.
A leader must be knowledgeable and wise.

9. List Characteristics a good Leader of Canada should have….
Brainstorm with a partner and make a list.
Do you possess any of these qualities?
Would you be a good leader of Canada?

10. Talking Circle Lets try the talking circle activity on pages 26-27.
It is important that we try to put ourselves in a first nations person role while trying this activitiy.

11. After the Talking Circle
What was the most difficult rule to follow for your group or class? Why?
How does this talking circle experience compare to the way laws are established in our province? From your knowledge as a student, to what extend are our politicians committed to consensus building in their decision making?
What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of building a consensus decision? m