A land and climate for farming

The Iroquoian territory was fertile. This means it was good for farming.  It was located around the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Lowlands. The area had a humid continental climate. The Iroquoians mainly grew corn, squash and beans, which they call the three sisters. Berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries, grew well. There was also a wide variety of plants that were used in many ways, such as making medicines.

Water, forests and animals

There were many rivers on the territory. Getting around by canoe was very convenient. These rivers were also full of fish and turtles. The forests contained several species of trees, like birch, oak, elm, fir and pine. These are called mixed forests because they have both coniferous and deciduous trees. The forests were home to several species of animals such as beavers, deer, bears and wolves.

Natural resources for sustaining life

All these are examples of natural resources which provided the Iroquoians with everything they needed for food, clothing, shelter, medicine, and entertainment.

Author: Service national du Récit de l’univers social

Translation and adaptations by LEARN.

Iroquoians grew the “three sisters”
Iroquoians often travelled by canoe
Resources for sustaining life
The climate on Indigenous peoples' territory around 1500
Indigenous territories and Canadian Shield around 1500

Important concepts and big ideas:

Sustainability – Une approche durable
Rich in resources – Riche en ressources
Sustainable land use – Utilisation soutenable des terres
Vegetation – Végétation
Adapt to the environment – S’adapter à l’environnement
Transportation routes – voies de transport

 

Quickly check your knowledge:

 

See also: – Corn porridge on the menu

 

Teacher's Corner
Below you will find some activities students can do as
SMARTBoard tools for the Iroquois – Cycle 2 (Gr. 3) for more images and activities.