An Address, Delivered Before the Was-ah Ho-de-no-son-ne or New Confederacy of the Iroquois Also, Genundewah, a Poem

by Henry Rowe Schoolcraft

"An Address, Delivered Before the Was-ah Ho-de-no-son-ne or New Confederacy of the Iroquois" by Henry R. Schoolcraft is a scholarly address delivered in the mid-19th century, specifically during 1845. This historical account focuses on the cultural and political significance of the Iroquois Confederacy, exploring their governance, traditions, and the importance of intellectual endeavors related to their heritage. Schoolcraft aims to highlight the contributions of Native Americans, particularly the Iroquois, to American history and culture. The content of the book delves into the principles underlying the Iroquois Confederacy, describing its structure as a complex yet functional system rooted in cooperation and mutual interests among tribes. Schoolcraft emphasizes the significance of intellectual pursuits in preserving tribal histories and fostering cultural pride. He discusses the ancient traditions, governance systems, and shared bonds among the tribes, presenting the Iroquois as a formidable and advanced political entity of their time. The address ultimately serves not only as a tribute to the Iroquois but also as a call to action for the cultivation of American literature and history drawing from indigenous sources.