What is the significance of the Longhouse?
A longhouse was a large open dwelling that housed many families, all of the same clan. These longhouses made up the nation community, with settlements made up of several of them. The longhouse was an important place of government for the Iroquois Confederacy, Men and women, and even children, gathered in them to discuss important events, and issues, and to advise their leaders. People were expected to attend these meetings as consensus had to be reached by all members before any decisions could be made. (pg 92 Taking Part in Our Democracy)