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 (1793-1864)

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, offers readers a fascinating insight into the culture, history, and traditions of the Iroquois Confederacy. As a prominent anthropologist and author, Schoolcraft masterfully captures the essence of Native American life through his address and accompanying poem.

The strength of this book lies in Schoolcraft's ability to contextualize the Iroquois Confederacy within a broader historical framework. He skillfully intertwines factual information with personal anecdotes, presenting a well-rounded narrative that educates while captivating his readers. Schoolcraft's attention to detail and dedicated research are evident throughout, ensuring that the book serves as an invaluable resource for anyone interested in Native American studies.

The Address itself is a testament to Schoolcraft's deep understanding and respect for the Iroquois Confederacy. He emphasizes the Grand Council's significance and the principles that govern the Confederacy, offering a rare glimpse into their political and social structure. By highlighting the Iroquois' achievements and their important contributions to American society, Schoolcraft effectively challenges the prevailing stereotypes of Native Americans during his time.

Accompanying the Address is "Genundewah," Schoolcraft's celebrated poem that pays tribute to the Iroquois Confederacy. This captivating poetic work beautifully captures the essence of their interconnectedness with nature, their devotion to unity, and their reverence for tradition. The rhythmic flow and evocative language transport readers to a realm where spirituality intertwines with daily life.

While the book serves as a valuable resource, it is not without its flaws. Some readers may find Schoolcraft's writing style somewhat dated, and the language occasionally complex and dense. Additionally, the book lacks certain critical viewpoints, as it primarily presents Schoolcraft's own interpretations and observations. Readers seeking a broader range of perspectives may need to complement this book with supplementary works.

Overall, 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, stands as an essential contribution to Native American studies. Its meticulous research, insightful analysis, and Schoolcraft's deep affinity with his subject matter make this book a valuable resource for historians, anthropologists, and those seeking to understand and appreciate the vibrant culture and heritage of the Iroquois Confederacy.

First Page:

In a country like ours, whose institutions rest on the popular will, we must rely for our social and literary means and honors, exclusively on personal exertions, springing from the bosom of society. We have no external helps and reliances, sealed in expectations of public patronage, held by the hands of executive, or ministerial power. Our ancestors, it is true, were accustomed to such stimulants to literary exertions. Titles and honors were the prerogatives of Kings, who sometimes stooped from their political eminences, to bestow the reward upon the brows of men, who had rendered their names conspicuous in the fields of science and letters. Such is still the hope of men of letters in England, Germany and France. But if a bold and hardy ancestry, who had learned the art of thought in the bitter school of experience, were accustomed to such dispensations of royal favors, while they remained in Europe, they feel but little benefit from them here; and made no provision for their exercise, as one of the immunities of powers, when they came to set up the frame of a government for themselves... Continue reading book >>