Eastern Algonquian Languages - Classification

Classification

A consensus classification of the known Eastern Algonquian languages and dialects by Goddard (1996) is given below with some emendation, for example treatment of Massachusett and Narragansett as distinct languages. In the case of poorly attested languages, particularly in southern New England, conclusive classification of written records as representing separate languages or dialects may be ultimately impossible. Headings in upper case denote proposed subgroups within Eastern Algonquian.

1. Míkmaq (also known as Micmac, Mi’kmaq, Mi’gmaq, or Mi’kmaw)
I. ABENAKIAN

2. Eastern Abnaki (also known as Abenaki or Abenaki-Penobscot)

3. Western Abnaki (also known as Abnaki, St. Francis, Abenaki, or Abenaki-Penobscot)

4. Malecite-Passamaquoddy (also known as Maliseet-Passamquoddy)

5. Etchemin
II. SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND

6. Massachusett

7. Narragansett

8. Loup A

9. Loup B

10. Mohegan-Pequot-Montauk

11. Quiripi-Naugatuck-Unquachog

III. DELAWARAN

12. Mahican (also known as Mohican)

DELAWARE

13. Munsee

14. Unami (also known as Lenape)

15. Nanticoke

• (also known as Conoy)

16. Powhatan (also known as Virginia Algonquian)
17. Carolina Algonquian (also known as Pamlico, Pamtico, Pampticough, Christianna Algonquian)