UVM Theses and Dissertations
Format:
Print
Author:
Preedom, Matthew D.
Dept./Program:
History
Year:
2013
Degree:
MA
Abstract:
This thesis explores the role of the Pawtucket Sachem Wonohaquaham (known to the English as Sagamore John) in the diplomatic interactions carried out between Native Americans and the Massachusetts Bay Colony from 1628 to 1633. It argues that Wonohaquaham used a variety of legal, economic, and symbolic bonds to draw the Puritans into closer cooperation with his people. The sachem then exploited this relationship to attain support for his beleaguered followers, and influence the Puritans' perceptions of Native American groups. It is through upon this relationship that the Puritan conceptions of various Native American groups were founded, and the antipathy they felt toward the Pequot was developed.