• The Iroquoians
• The Algonquians

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To Make Things Clear

When we use the names Iroquoian and Algonquian we are referring to linguistic families. Simply put, a linguistic family is made up of groups of people who speak languages that are similar. For example, an Iroquois and a Wendat could discuss things, each using their own language, and be able to understand each other. Therefore, these two groups are classed in the same linguistic family, Iroquoian.

Language is not the only thing that the First Nations had in common: there was also their way of life. Nations belonging to the same linguistic family shared certain characteristics. Think of the Algonquians, for example, who are described as semi-nomads practicing little or no horticulture. There were some groups among them who grew corn, but in general nations in the same linguistic family shared a similar language and culture.

In fact, their way of life depended on their territory and the resources that it offered. Since their territories produced different resources, the Algonquians and the Iroquoians had different lifestyles. It would be hard to be a farmer in the north of Canada, wouldn't it?

So, are you ready to visit their villages? You can begin with whichever one you wish, the Algonquian village or the Iroquoian village.