Michael G Johnson / Jonathan Smith
overview
The federated Iroquois tribes were absolutely central to the long struggle between the British colonists in eastern North America, and the French and their client tribes. They fought many exciting frontier campaigns, and were generally loyal allies of the British for 200 years from the late 16th century. They provided the redcoats and colonial militias with an invaluable scouting and raiding element, right up to the end of the American War of Independence in 1782, when the Mohawks trekked to new lands they were given in Canada by a grateful Crown. The Iroquois had a rich and individual material culture which is beautifully illustrated in this book.
contents
Introduction - Origins of the Confederacy · The five, later six nations · History of the Confederacy: early contacts with British and Dutch colonies · The 17th century Mohawk and Beaver Wars against the French - Sir William Johnson and the French-Indian War, 1701-1770 - Joseph Brandt and the Revolution, 1770-1800 · Social organization and religion · Material culture