Pocahontas: Myth vs. Historical Reality — Reading Comprehension

Pocahontas is one of the most well-known figures from early American history, but much of what people think they know about her is based on myth rather than historical evidence. Born around 1596, Pocahontas was the daughter of Chief Powhatan, the leader of a large Native American confederacy in what is now Virginia. Her real name was Matoaka, but she was commonly called Pocahontas, meaning 'playful one.' The arrival of English colonists at Jamestown in 1607 led to complicated relationships between the Powhatan people and the newcomers.

Many traditional stories present Pocahontas as a 'princess' who saved the Englishman John Smith from execution by her tribe. However, historians debate the accuracy of this account. John Smith himself wrote, "...two great stones were brought before Powhatan: then as many as could lay hands on him [Smith], dragged him to them, and thereon laid his head... Pocahontas, the King's dearest daughter, when no entreaty could prevail, got his head in her arms, and laid her own upon his to save him from death." This quote, written years after the event, raises questions about its reliability. Some scholars believe Smith may have misunderstood a Powhatan ceremony or exaggerated the story to enhance his reputation.

The myth of Pocahontas as a romantic figure who fell in love with Smith is not supported by primary sources. In fact, she was likely about 10 to 12 years old at the time of their first meeting, making such a relationship unlikely. English and Powhatan perspectives on Pocahontas were very different. For the English, she became a symbol of hope for peaceful relations and the possibility of assimilation of Native peoples into English culture. For the Powhatan, her interactions with the colonists were part of complex diplomacy and survival strategies.

Pocahontas played a real role as a mediator between her father and the settlers, sometimes bringing food to the struggling colony. However, tensions grew as the English expanded their settlements and demanded more resources. In 1613, Pocahontas was kidnapped by the English during a period of escalating conflict. While in captivity, she converted to Christianity, took the name Rebecca, and married John Rolfe, a tobacco planter. This marriage was promoted as a symbol of peace, but it also served English political interests. Rolfe wrote to the governor, “It is only the spirit of God which hath moved me to choose Pocahontas to wife, for the good of this plantation.”

Pocahontas’s trip to England in 1616 further illustrates the contrast between myth and reality. She was presented to English society as a 'civilized' Native woman, intended to encourage more support for the Jamestown colony. Unfortunately, she became ill and died in England in 1617, never returning to her homeland. The consequences of her story were significant: her image was used to justify English colonization, while the real experiences of Native peoples were often ignored.

By comparing the myth and historical reality of Pocahontas, students can see how history is shaped by the perspectives of those who write it. While popular culture has created a simple, heroic narrative, the evidence shows a more complex story of cultural contact, conflict, and adaptation. Understanding these nuances helps us better appreciate the importance of examining multiple sources and viewpoints in history.

Interesting Fact: The only portrait of Pocahontas made during her lifetime was engraved in England in 1616, showing her in English clothing and style.

What was Pocahontas’s real name?

In what year did Pocahontas die?

Who did Pocahontas marry?

Why do historians doubt Smith’s rescue story?

What role did Pocahontas play?

What was one motive for Pocahontas's marriage?

Pocahontas was a symbol of hope.

What does diplomacy mean?