Mohawk people facts for kids
The Mohawk people are an important group of Indigenous people from North America. They speak an Iroquoian language. Their communities were mainly in northern New York State and southeastern Canada, especially near Lake Ontario and the St Lawrence River.
The Mohawk are the most easterly tribe of the Haudenosaunee, also known as the Iroquois Confederacy. They were one of the five original members of this powerful group. Because of their location, the Mohawk are known as the Keepers of the Eastern Door. This means they were like the protectors of the eastern entrance to the Iroquois lands.
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Who Are the Mohawk People?
The Mohawk call themselves Kanienʼkehá꞉ka, which means "People of the Flint." Flint is a type of rock that was very important for making tools and starting fires. This name shows their strong connection to the land and their skills.
The Iroquois Confederacy
The Iroquois Confederacy is a historic alliance of several Native American nations. It was formed a long time ago to bring peace and strength among them. The Mohawk were a key part of this group. Being the "Keepers of the Eastern Door" meant they played a special role in defending the confederacy's territory from the east.
Mohawk History and Culture
Mohawk people have a rich history and culture. They lived in longhouses, which were large homes shared by many families. Their society was based on clans, and leadership was often passed down through the women of the family. They were skilled farmers, hunters, and traders. They also had a strong tradition of storytelling and ceremonies.
Important Mohawk Figures
Throughout history, many Mohawk individuals have been important leaders, warriors, and artists. They have worked to protect their people and share their culture.
John Norton
[[Mather Brown - Portrait of Major John Norton as Mohawk Chief Teyoninhokarawen - Google Art Project.jpg|thumb|Teyoninhokovrawen (John Norton) played a prominent role in the War of 1812, leading Iroquois warriors from Grand River into battle against Americans. Norton was part Cherokee and part Scottish.]] One famous Mohawk leader was Teyoninhokovrawen, also known as John Norton. He was a chief who played a big part in the War of 1812. He led Iroquois warriors from the Grand River area in battles against American forces. John Norton had both Cherokee and Scottish heritage.
Pauline Johnson
[[Tekahionwake ca 1895.jpg|thumb|Pauline Johnson, Mohawk writer]] Another notable person was Pauline Johnson. She was a famous Mohawk writer and performer in the late 1800s and early 1900s. She wrote poems and stories that celebrated her Indigenous heritage and shared the beauty of her culture with a wider audience.
Mohawk Today
Today, Mohawk communities continue to thrive in both Canada and the United States. They work to preserve their language, traditions, and sovereignty. Many Mohawk people are involved in various fields, including art, education, and politics, while still honoring their heritage.
Images for kids
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Map of Mohawk River
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Kanienʼkehá:ka dancer at a pow wow in 2015
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Contemporary Quebec Kanienʼkehá꞉ka dance performance at Wikimania 2017
See also
In Spanish: Nación Mohawk para niños
