Abstract
Made from seashell beads, wampum was an object of mediation used by Northeastern Native Americans, particularly the Iroquois and the Huron, in their relations with the French of New France in the 17th and 18th centuries. During French-Native American peace conferences, Native Americans, but also representatives of the Kings of France, exchanged “porcelain belts/strings” to facilitate their relations, in the spirit of reconciliation and appeasement, characteristic of the Iroquoian culture of condolences. Wampum was more than a simple materialization of the given word: it was endowed by Native Americans with sensitive qualities that meant to ensure the effectiveness of the spoken words.
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call