Democracy and the Iroquois Constitution

Founding Fathers such as Benjamin Franklin were in regular contact with the Iroquois Confederacy, and Great Council leaders were invited to address the Continental Congress in 1776.

The six nations of the Iroquois Confederacy, or Haudenosaunee (hoe-dee-no-SHOW-nee)—People of the Long House—thrive today. At the Field, we are proud to hold in trust a collection of over 200 artifacts labeled as Iroquois, dating from the 1900s to the present day, and another about 200 from the separate nations that comprise the confederacy.  

Wampum belts, woven with beads made from shells, are used to record history and commemorate important events. In the future Native North America Hall at the Field, you'll be able to see a display about wampum and learn more about their uses and significance.

And, remember to participate in democracy by voting. When you do, bear in mind the legacy of the Iroquois Constitution.