How did Squanto, the interpreter for Massasoit and the Pilgrims,learn English?
Squanto's story is told here.
http://www.nativeamericans.com/Squanto.htm
Squanto, also known as Tisquantum, was a member of the Patuxet tribe and played a crucial role as an interpreter between the Wampanoag people, led by Massasoit, and the English settlers known as the Pilgrims. Squanto's ability to speak English was a result of a series of unique experiences.
Here's how Squanto learned English:
1. Abduction and Slavery: In 1614, Squanto was captured by English explorers and taken to England against his will. There, he was enslaved for several years. During his time in captivity, Squanto likely learned English from his captors and those around him.
2. Assistance from John Slany: In 1619, Squanto managed to escape slavery and found his way to London. It was there that he encountered an Englishman named John Slany, who took an interest in helping him return to his homeland.
3. Travel to Newfoundland and Spain: With John Slany's assistance, Squanto embarked on a journey to Newfoundland and later Spain. His purpose was to find a way back to North America.
4. Return to Native Land: After several years of traveling, Squanto finally returned to his homeland in 1619. Unfortunately, his tribe had been wiped out by an epidemic, possibly smallpox, brought by European settlers. As one of the few survivors, Squanto faced a drastically changed landscape.
5. Encounter with the Pilgrims: In 1620, when the Pilgrims arrived in Plymouth, Squanto managed to communicate with them in English, transforming him into an invaluable interpreter. It is believed that Squanto's knowledge of the English language greatly facilitated communication between the natives and the settlers.
In summary, Squanto learned English through a combination of being abducted, experiencing slavery, traveling to Europe, encountering individuals who assisted him, and ultimately returning to his homeland where he became instrumental in bridging the communication gap between the Pilgrims and the Native Americans.