Who is the legendary peacemaker who founded the Iroquois Confederacy?

The legendary peacemaker who founded the Iroquois Confederacy is Deganawida, widely known as the Great Peacemaker.

Haudenosaunee tradition portrays Deganawida as a prophet who promoted peace and unity among rival nations. He is traditionally credited with proposing the confederacy and its principles, including the Great Law of Peace. His speech impediment is part of some accounts, which explain why Hiawatha became the persuasive spokesman for his message.

Hiawatha was not simply an alternative name for Deganawida. He was the Peacemaker’s important ally and an instrumental organizer and orator. Jigonhsasee, remembered as the Mother of Nations, is also included as a founder or facilitator in some traditions. Thus, Deganawida is the best answer to the question’s singular description of the peacemaker.

The confederacy initially united the Five Nations—the Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca. The Tuscarora joined later, creating the Six Nations.