Massasoit of the Wampanoags

Containing an overview of the Wampanoag tribe and the Plymouth Colony, Massasoit of the Wampanoags discusses the life of tribe leader Massasoit. Massasoit was born in present-day Rhode Island, fathered five children, became the leader of the Wampanoag tribe, and ultimately prevented the failure of the Plymouth Colony and the almost certain death and starvation of the Pilgrims who wished to settle there. When Wampanoag member Squanto left the tribe to aid the settlers in growing corn and other vegetables to live sustainably, Massasoit believed the man had betrayed him and his people. There was great tension between Massasoit and the colonists after the Pilgrims refused to hand over Squanto at Massasoit’s command. Later in the year, this conflict was resolved when Massasoit grew ill and Edward Winslow of the Plymouth Colony nursed him to health. From then until his death, Massasoit continued to supply the Pilgrims with food and helpful instruction.