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Mohawks [archive]

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Mohawks

Language

The Mohawk language is part of the Iroquois linguistic group. Around 15% of the total population of the Mohawk Nation in Quebec speak their language.

Total Population

The single largest population of any First Nation in Quebec, there are upwards of 14,735 people in the Mohawk Nation, with more than 12,450 residents in one or the other of the three Mohawk communities in the province. Other communities are located in Ontario, and the United States.

Territories

In the 16th century, the Mohawks were a member of the powerful Iroquois confederation known as the Five Nations, or Haudenosaunee, and their territories covered much of what is still known as New England. Today, there are three Mohawk territories in Quebec, one of which straddles the borders of Quebec, Ontario and the state of New York, and with the other two located near the city of Montreal.

Communities

The three communities that make up the Mohawk Nation in Quebec are Kahnawake, Kanesatake, and Akwesane.

Organizations

Each community has its own band council for the administration of local affairs.

Celebrated Personalities

Robbie Robertson - Musician
John Kim Bell - Orchestra Director
Mary Two-Axe-Early - Women's activist
Alwyn Morris - 1984 Olympic Gold Medalist in Kayaking

Additional Reading

Native Tribes
Mohawk History
Mohawk Native Americans
Mohawk Legends
New York reservations