Advanced Placement United States History

Friendly Relations Between Native Americans & Europeans

Most friendly = Dutch – Iroquois fur trade: friendly because the Dutch were not looking to settle, so they did not threaten Native American resources or lifestyle. When Dutch settle New Amsterdam, they encounter Native American resistance.

French Cours de Bois – Algonquin: because the French were not at first looking to settle, so they did not threaten Native American resources or lifestyle. When French settle New France, they meet Native American resistance. French alliance with the Algonquin will figure into the French & Indian War.

Jesuits evangelized the Natives by learning Native American culture and customs, living among them, respecting them as people, and then inviting them to the Gospel. Much more effective (and respectful of human dignity) than attempts to force natives into conversion. See Pope's Rebellion.

New England – Massasoit forges an unsteady peace with New England settlers. This peace is broken by his son, Metacom.

Chesapeake - Pocahontas plays a key role in forging lasting peace between the English settlers in the Chesapeake and her father's people, thePowhatan.

posted by Jeffrey @ Wednesday, September 21, 2005