Back to Blog
Although some scholars believe that the Five Nations (Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Mohawk, and Seneca) formed their Iroquois League in the 12th century, the most popular theory holds that the confederation was created around 1450, before Columbus’ “discovery” of America. The Iroquois Confederation is the oldest association of its kind in North America. Others refute that theory and argue that the framers of the United States Constitution and other documents did not need the example of Indian governments because they could refer to numerous English and Continental European political theories for their ideas. We are a Powerfull confederacy, and by your observing the same Methods our wise Forefathers have taken, you will acquire fresh Strength and Power."Ĭanasatego’s admonition and other evidence has led some scholars to believe that Native American, particularly Iroquois, governments served as models for the new nation’s government. Our wise Forefathers established Union and Amity between the Five Nations this has made us formidable, this has given us great weight and Authority with our Neighboring Nations. We heartily recommend Union and a Good Agreement between you our Brethren. In 1744, Canasatego, leader of the Onondaga nation and spokesman for the Iroquois Confederation, advised the British colonists: Did any Native American group influence the men who drafted the United States governing documents? Answer
0 Comments
Read More
Leave a Reply. |