The oldest living constitution. The Iroquois Constitution, which still governs the Iroquois
today, is regarded as the world’s oldest living constitution. It gives member peoples equal
voice in the nations’ affairs, spells out a system of checks and balances, and guarantees
political and religious freedom. Most amazing by European standards of that time, the
Iroquois Constitution grants extensive political power to women, who hold the right to
nominate and impeach chiefs.
Identify one element of the Iroquois Constitution that was very different from how the Europeans viewed government and those who held power.
A) One person was appointed or elected as the leader.
B) Women held extensive political power and could nominate and impeach chiefs.
C) Men were the only people who could hold political power.
D) A system of checks and balances was necessary to guarantee political and religious freedom.