The Haudenosaunee

Gr 2-5–Information about the group of nations known as the Haudenosaunee is organized into short sections beginning with a version of the creation story. A brief history of Peacemaker and Hiawatha forming the league between the Five Nations is followed by descriptions of the roles of men, women, and children. For instance, men hunted, fished, and cleared the fields, but women planted and tended the crops and prepared the food. Cultural details, such as inheritance and leadership roles passing through the female line of a family, are also noted. Impressionistic style paintings show groups playing the Creator’s Game (lacrosse) or making maple sugar. Spot illustrations feature items like ceremonial drums, bone awls, and corn husk dolls. A final section discusses where the tribes now live and the varied careers of Haudenosaunee Confederacy members. Back matter includes a list of websites for more information on the Haudenosaunee as well as Native Americans in general. There are also a few photographs such as a wampum belt and a longhouse. Note: Originally released in 1995 under the title The Iroquois, this meticulously updated edition has been reviewed for accuracy by a member of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy.