council of sachems

The Council of Sachems was a governing body among some Indigenous peoples of North America, particularly the Iroquois Confederacy. It consisted of sachems, or leaders from different tribes, who came together to make decisions on important matters like warfare, diplomacy, and resource management. This council operated on principles of consensus, ensuring that various tribes had a voice in governance. The Council of Sachems played a crucial role in maintaining peace and collaboration among member tribes, showcasing an early form of democratic governance long before European settlers arrived.