Subject
Indians of North America -- New England -- History -- 17th century Books
Best books
Thomas Morton
The New English Canaan of Thomas Morton with Introductory Matter and Notes
"The New English Canaan of Thomas Morton with Introductory Matter and Notes" is a historical account edited by Charles Francis Adams, Jr., published in the late 19th century. This work centers on Thomas Morton's experiences and observations during the early colonial period in New England, particularly his settlement at Merrymount and its interactions with Native Americans and other settlers. It explores themes of freedom, revelry, and the clash of cultures in early America. The opening of the text provides a detailed introduction to Morton’s background and the context of his life in the early 17th century. It begins with references to other historical figures, such as Captain Wollaston and Governor Bradford, illustrating the complexities of colonial attempts to establish settlements. Morton emerges as a controversial figure, with charges against him hinting at a tempestuous and colorful life involving trade, revelry, and interactions with Native tribes. The narrative pivots around his endeavors at Merry-Mount, where he engages in spirited festivities, depicts early colonial life, and challenges Puritan norms, setting the stage for his eventual conflicts with the more austere Plymouth settlers.
Catherine Marten
The Wampanoags in the seventeenth century : $b An ethnohistorical survey
"The Wampanoags in the Seventeenth Century: An Ethnohistorical Survey" by Catherine Marten is a historical account written in the late 20th century. It explores the culture, demographics, and historical circumstances of the Wampanoag tribe during the period they interacted with European colonists, particularly the Pilgrims in Plymouth. This work aims to fill the gaps in ethnographic information regarding the Wampanoags, offering insights into their way of life before and during European contact. The opening of this study presents important contextual information, explaining the purpose of the text as a comprehensive guide for understanding Wampanoag culture, initially intended for staff at Plimoth Plantation. Marten addresses the historical neglect of southeastern New England tribes in anthropological studies and highlights the Wampanoags as a significant example for understanding indigenous culture during the 17th century. The text outlines the early interactions between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoags, setting the stage for a deeper examination of their societal structure, language, and the impact of European contact on their way of life.
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