Upper Mohawk First Nation facts for kids
The Upper Mohawk First Nation is a group of Mohawk people who live in southern Ontario, Canada. They are part of a larger community called the Six Nations of the Grand River. The Upper Mohawk share their land and are governed by the council of the Six Nations.
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Who are the Upper Mohawk?
The Upper Mohawk First Nation is one of the many groups that make up the Mohawk people. A "First Nation" is a term used in Canada for Indigenous peoples, similar to Native American tribes in the United States. A "band" is a smaller group within a First Nation, often sharing a common history and territory.
What is a First Nation?
A First Nation is a recognized group of Indigenous people in Canada. They have their own history, culture, and often their own system of government. They are the original inhabitants of the land.
The Six Nations of the Grand River
The Six Nations of the Grand River is a large territory and community in Ontario. It is home to people from six different Indigenous nations: the Mohawk, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, Seneca, and Tuscarora. These nations came together a long time ago to form a powerful alliance.
Sharing the Land
Members of the Upper Mohawk live on the territory of the Six Nations of the Grand River. This means they share the land with people from the other five nations. Living together helps them keep their traditions strong and support each other.
How They Are Governed
The Upper Mohawk First Nation is governed by the council of the Six Nations of the Grand River. This council makes important decisions for all the people living on the territory. This includes things like managing resources, education, and community services.
Mohawk History and Culture
The Mohawk people are part of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy, one of the oldest democracies in North America. They have a rich history and culture, known for their strong leadership and connection to the land.
The Mohawk People
The Mohawk people call themselves Kanienʼkehá꞉ka, which means "People of the Flint." They were traditionally known for their skills in trade, diplomacy, and warfare. Their traditional territory stretched across parts of what is now New York State and southern Quebec and Ontario.
Living in Southern Ontario
The Upper Mohawk, as part of the Six Nations, have a long history in southern Ontario. Their ancestors moved to this area after the American Revolution. They continue to practice their traditions, language, and ceremonies, keeping their unique culture alive for future generations.
