Introduction to Finger Lakes Region
The Finger Lakes region, located in upstate New York, is named after the eleven lakes that resemble fingers. It is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, and its scenic beauty attracts many tourists. However, long before Europeans settled in the area, it was inhabited by various indigenous tribes.
Pre-European Occupation
Before European colonization, the Finger Lakes region was primarily inhabited by the Iroquoian-speaking people, who were part of the larger Algonquian language family. They were skilled in agriculture, fishing, and hunting. Their livelihood relied heavily on the natural resources of the region.
The Iroquois Confederacy
In the 16th century, the five nations of the Iroquois Confederacy (also known as Haudenosaunee) were established. These nations were the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca. Later, the Tuscarora Nation joined the confederacy. The Iroquois Confederacy was a powerful alliance that maintained peace among the member nations and defended their territories against outsiders.
Cayuga Nation
The Cayuga Nation, also known as Guyohkohnyo, is one of the six nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. They were known for their diplomacy and peacemaking skills. Today, the Cayuga Nation is located near Seneca Falls, New York.
Onondaga Nation
The Onondaga Nation, also known as Onöñda’gega’ or “People of the Hills,” is one of the six nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. They are known for their role as the “firekeepers” of the confederacy and as the spiritual center of the Haudenosaunee. Today, the Onondaga Nation is located near Syracuse, New York.
Oneida Nation
The Oneida Nation, also known as Onayotekaono or the “People of the Standing Stone,” is one of the six nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. They were known for their hunting and fishing skills. Today, the Oneida Nation is located near Utica, New York.
Mohawk Nation
The Mohawk Nation, also known as Kanien’kehá:ka or “People of the Flint,” is one of the six nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. They were known for their fierce warrior skills and were often called upon to defend the confederacy. Today, the Mohawk Nation is located near Akwesasne, New York.
Seneca Nation
The Seneca Nation, also known as Onöndowa’ga:’ or “People of the Great Hill,” is one of the six nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. They were known for their agricultural skills and were the largest of the six nations. Today, the Seneca Nation is located near Buffalo, New York.
Tuscarora Nation
The Tuscarora Nation, also known as Skarù∙ręʔ, is the most recent addition to the Iroquois Confederacy. They were originally from North Carolina but were forced to migrate to New York in the 18th century. Today, the Tuscarora Nation is located near Niagara Falls, New York.
Other Indigenous Tribes
In addition to the Iroquoian-speaking tribes, other indigenous tribes resided in the Finger Lakes region, such as the Erie, Susquehannock, and Wenrohronon. However, they were displaced or assimilated by the Iroquois Confederacy.
Recognition and Preservation
Efforts have been made to recognize and preserve the indigenous history and culture of the Finger Lakes region. Museums, cultural centers, and historical sites have been established to educate visitors about the traditions and customs of the Haudenosaunee and other indigenous tribes.
Conclusion and Further Research
The Finger Lakes region has a rich indigenous history that should be acknowledged and celebrated. Learning about the tribes that inhabited the area before European colonization is not only important for historical accuracy but also for cultural appreciation and understanding. Further research can be done through visiting museums and cultural centers, reading books by indigenous authors, and engaging with indigenous communities.