Iroquois Study Cards

Front

When did the earliest Iroquois move into the area of present-day New York?

Back

The Iroquois moved into the area of present-day New York about 1,000 years ago.

Front

Why did the Iroquois build their villages on high ground with tall log fences called palisades?

Back

The Iroquois built their villages on high ground with palisades for protection. The palisades protected villages against wind, wild animals, and enemy attacks.

Front

What purpose did the longhouse provide for the Iroquois? Did many related families live together in a longhouse?

Back

A longhouse provided a lot of space for a clan or family. Families were able to share a fire pit, and there was enough space to store food, clothing, and bedding. Many related families lived together in a longhouse.

Front

What crops did the Iroquois grow?

Back

The Iroquois grew corns, beans, and squash. Corn was the most important crop because they used it for food all throughout the year. It was an important ingredient in many of their meals.

Front

What was the essential (main) crop grown by the Iroquois? Why was it so important?

Back

The essential crop grown by the Iroquois was corn. It was used for food all throughout the year. It was a common ingredient for many of their meals.

Front

Where did the Native Americans live? Why did they live there?

Back

The Native Americans lived in and around the area of present-day New York. They settled near the south shore of Lake Ontario and along the Mohawk River. They lived here because they could fish and hunt for food.

Front

Before the Europeans arrived, why did the Iroquois call these years the dark times? Explain. 

Back

These years were called the dark times because the Iroquois nations often fought with one another. Many Iroquois died during these wars.

Front

Why did the Huron Indian man, called the Peacemaker, believe it was beneficial (good) for the Iroquois nations to join together?

Back

The Peacemaker believed that the Iroquois nations needed to join together to prevent wars and death.

Front

What important document helped bring peace and order to the Iroquois nations?

Back

The Great Law of Peace helped to bring peace to the Iroquois. It acts as their constitution of rules and laws. This document guides the Iroquois nations today.

Front

What diseases did the European traders inflict (give to) on the Iroquois?

Back

European traders inflicted smallpox, measles, and other diseases on the Iroquois.