1. Native American Literature
“The Iroquois Constitution” a foundation for the Constitution of the United States of America

3. The Iroquois Constitution

4. Iroquois
Originally five separate tribes called the Five Nations– Seneca, Cayuga, Oneida, Onondaga, and Mohawk
Tuscarora was the sixth tribe added sometime after then known as the Six Nations
Fighting between the tribes put them at risk of attack by the Algonquin tribes
The tribes formed the Iroquois League to negotiate with foreign nations and resolve conflict among the tribes.
The tribes have a shared culture and similar language
Today the tribes fight for environmental protection and increased recognition from the US and other governments

5. "The Iroquois Constitution" was first thought to have been written in the 1500's, but a newer theory believes it to be between 1090 and 1150 A.D. Five Nations that formed the Iroquois Confederation included the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca tribes.

6. Tree of Great Long Leaves
The author uses imagery to help the reader picture what the author is describing. “Tree of the Great Peace.” Also called “The Tree of Great Long Leaves.
The Tree of Great Peace symbolizes:
Strength
Stability
Longevity

7. The Great White Roots
The spreading of peace throughout the Native American Nations.
Unity—United together, but free to spread out.
Strength—without a strong root system the tree would fall.
Growth and nutrients—the nations “feed” the tree through the roots and it will then grow.

8. Eagle Perched atop the tree the eagle warns the nations of danger.
Guardian to the nations.
Strength—an eagle is a predator bird it is strong.
Defense—an eagle will protect its territory from attack.

9. Council Smoke and Fire
All who see the smoke know the nations are allies to be seen by all men.
Fire symbolizes the importance of home and hearth.

10. String of Shells Represents the Nations.
The history of the constitution is recorded on the shells.
Respect and equality of the nations.

11. Deer Antlers
Leadership and authority to speak for the Nations.

12. The Thickness of You Skin
One should not show weakness, but should be tough skinned, “proofed” or protected from human weakness.

13. Your Heart
Filled with peace and good will for the welfare of the people of all nations.
Represents being unselfish.