Pocahontas and the Powhatan People — Reading Comprehension

Pocahontas was a Native American girl who belonged to the Powhatan people. The Powhatan lived in what is now Virginia. They built homes from wood and grew food like corn and beans. Pocahontas’s father, Chief Powhatan, was the leader of many villages. He wanted to keep his people safe and strong.

In 1607, English settlers arrived and started a town called Jamestown. The settlers struggled to find food and build homes. At first, the Powhatan and settlers did not trust each other. There were many conflicts and people on both sides were afraid.

One day, Captain John Smith, a leader of the settlers, was captured by the Powhatan. According to Smith, Pocahontas saved his life. Smith wrote, “Pocahontas, the king’s dearest daughter, got his head in her arms and laid her own upon his to save him from death.” This act helped create peace for a short time.

After this, Pocahontas visited Jamestown many times. She brought food and helped the settlers learn about the land. Her kindness helped build trust between the two groups. Later, Pocahontas was taken to England where she learned to speak English and met new people. She became a symbol of unity and peace.

The story of Pocahontas teaches us about bravery and trying to bring people together. The Powhatan and settlers faced many challenges, but Pocahontas showed that one person can make a big difference.

Interesting Fact: Pocahontas’s real name was Matoaka, but she was called Pocahontas as a nickname, which means “playful one.”

Who was Pocahontas’s father?

What was Jamestown?

Where did the Powhatan people live?

Why did Pocahontas save John Smith?

What happened after Pocahontas saved Smith?

What does Pocahontas’s nickname mean?

Pocahontas never went to England.

What does 'conflicts' mean?