Overview
This lecture explores the influence of the Iroquois Haudenosaunee, specifically their Great Law of Peace, on the formation of American government and early U.S. constitutional ideas.
The Great Law of Peace
- The Great Law of Peace was created to stop cycles of revenge killings between clans and nations.
- Hiawatha, a skilled speaker, and Deganawida, the idea man, collaborated to establish the Great Law.
- The Great Law maintained internal peace within the Six Nations and provided a defense model against external threats.
Iroquois Influence on American Government
- The Iroquois system influenced American ideas such as separation of powers, sovereignty, federalism, and the concept of "We the People."
- Benjamin Franklin published "Indian Treaties," highlighting Haudenosaunee leaders’ speeches on peace and governance.
- An Iroquois chief advised the colonies to unite similarly to the Six Nations’ model.
- Franklin proposed the Albany Plan of Union in 1754, inspired by the Iroquois Confederacy.
Interactions with Early American Founders
- Iroquois chiefs visited Philadelphia during the Continental Congress, observing proceedings and honoring John Hancock as a symbol of unity.
- In 1785, Jefferson, Madison, and Monroe studied the Iroquois system to inform the creation of the U.S. Constitution.
- Madison renewed contact with his friend, an Oneida chief, to learn more about Iroquois governance.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Great Law of Peace — the Iroquois Confederacy’s constitution for internal unity and external defense.
- Haudenosaunee — another name for the Iroquois Confederacy, a union of six Native American nations.
- Federalism — a governmental structure with shared power between central and regional authorities.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Visit ITVS.org for more information about Injunuity and related programs.