Mohawk people

Hudsonmap

Mohawk peace flag

Suscol Intertribal Council 2015 Pow-wow - Stierch 09

Wikimania 20170810-7495

Mather Brown - Portrait of Major John Norton as Mohawk Chief Teyoninhokarawen - Google Art Project

Iroquois Mohawk named Sychnecta from North America 1764

Mohawk people are an Indigenous people of North America, originally inhabiting the Mohawk Valley in what is now upstate New York. They are a member of the Iroquois Confederacy, a group of Native American tribes that formed a league for mutual defense and prosperity. The Mohawk people call themselves Kanienʼkehá꞉ka, which means "people of the flint place."

History

The Mohawk have a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Before the arrival of Europeans, they were primarily agriculturalists, growing crops such as corn, beans, and squash, which are known as the Three Sisters. They lived in longhouses, which could accommodate multiple families and were built from the abundant trees in their territory.

During the 17th century, the Mohawk became involved in the fur trade with the Dutch and later the English. This period marked significant changes in their society, including shifts in their economy, warfare, and alliances. The Mohawk allied with the British during the American Revolutionary War, which led to their displacement from the Mohawk Valley after the war's conclusion.

Culture

The Mohawk culture is deeply rooted in their beliefs, traditions, and practices. They are known for their matrilineal society, where clan identity and inheritance are passed down through the mother. The Mohawk are also famous for their skills in constructing longhouses and for their creation of wampum, a type of beadwork that has both artistic and political significance.

Language plays a crucial role in Mohawk culture. The Mohawk language, Kanienʼkéha, is an Iroquoian language that is still spoken today, though it is considered endangered. Efforts are underway to revitalize the language through educational programs and community initiatives.

Contemporary Issues

Today, the Mohawk people face several challenges, including issues related to land rights, environmental protection, and the preservation of their language and culture. Despite these challenges, the Mohawk continue to thrive, maintaining a strong sense of community and identity.

The Mohawk are also active in the political sphere, advocating for Indigenous rights and sovereignty. They are involved in various economic ventures, including gaming and tobacco sales, which have contributed to their economic development.

Notable Mohawk

Several Mohawk individuals have gained prominence in various fields. These include Joseph Brant, a Mohawk military and political leader during the 18th century, and Pauline Johnson, a celebrated poet and performer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Conclusion

The Mohawk people have a rich history and vibrant culture that have endured through centuries of change. Their contributions to the Iroquois Confederacy, their resilience in the face of adversity, and their ongoing efforts to preserve their heritage are testament to their enduring spirit.