The Onondaga Nation and Haudenosaunee Confederacy, of which it is a part, existed long before European settlers came to these shores. They had developed a sophisticated culture and governance style which allowed them to live harmoniously with the Earth.
After Europeans arrived in their territory, the Haudenosaunee negotiated on issues of trade and political alliances. At that time, the Haudenosaunee were the greatest power in the Northeast. Over several hundred years, the balance of power shifted greatly, with the Haudenosaunee losing nearly all their land and having their culture assaulted. However, they have maintained that culture and are in a period of renewal.
NOON’s Historical Marker Project
NOON’s historical marker project aims to analyze historical markers in our region which are of significance to Haudenosaunee peoples. We aim to provide accurate, complete, and contextualized information related to relevant markers.
History Articles & Resources
- Understanding Haudenosaunee Culture – View Brochure (pdf)
- View Onondaga Historical Timeline Brochure (pdf)
- Maps of the Traditional Onondaga Nation Territory
- Challenging the “Doctrine of Discovery”: Religious Roots of Cultural Imperialism and Environmental Destruction – by Phillip P. Arnold
- Doctrine of Discovery website
- The Two Row Wampum – the first treaty between the Haudenosaunee and European settlers – View Brochure (pdf)
- A Brief History of Haudenosaunee-U.S. Relations – View Brochure (pdf)
- Haudenosaunee Influences on the U.S. Government: A Debt in Governance Style – by Bruce E. Johansen – View Brochure (pdf)
- Iroquois Women Inspire 19th Century Feminists – by Sally Roesch Wagner – View Brochure (pdf)