What were the Native Americans side of the story in 1620?
Many of them saw invaders taking over their land.
I wonder if they didn't resent these new immigrants and the fact that they didn't speak the Natives' language.
1620 is the year that the Mayflower set sail to Plymouth Bay. Therefore I'm guessing the year symbolizes harmony between Native Americans and the pilgrims.
However from the Patuxet point of view (the tribe that aided the pilgrims) the arrival was devastating. They were completely wiped out by a plague that the colonists brought. The most vicious was the smallpox disease.
To understand the Native American perspective in 1620, we need to examine historical accounts and primary sources that document the interactions between the Native Americans and the English settlers, specifically the Pilgrims.
1. Research historical accounts: Start by reading historical accounts, such as journals, letters, and eyewitness testimonies, written by both the English settlers and the Native Americans who were present in the region at the time. These primary sources provide firsthand perspectives and valuable insights.
2. Study Native American tribes and cultures: Learn about the specific Native American tribes and cultures that inhabited the region during this period. Focus on the Wampanoag tribe, as they made contact with the Pilgrims in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
3. Examine oral histories and indigenous perspectives: Recognize that Native American history is often transmitted through oral traditions. Look for indigenous perspectives and narratives that have been shared and preserved across generations to gain a deeper understanding of their side of the story.
4. Consider the impact of colonization: Analyze the context of colonization and its effects on Native American populations. This includes the loss of land, resources, and overall upheaval caused by European settlement in America. Understanding the broader historical context helps to comprehend the Native American response to the English arrival.
It is important to note that primary sources may be limited in their scope and biased towards the English perspective due to both linguistic and cultural barriers, as well as the power dynamic between the settlers and the indigenous people. Therefore, interpreting these historical accounts with caution and seeking a diverse range of sources will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the Native American side of the story in 1620.