The True Story Of Squanto And The First Thanksgiving: The Truth Behind Tradition

As Thanksgiving approaches, families gather around the table to share a bountiful feast and express gratitude for the blessings of the year. But do we truly understand the origins of this beloved holiday? It's time to uncover the real story behind the first Thanksgiving and the extraordinary role played by Squanto.

The Mysterious Beginnings

The story starts in the early 17th century when a young Native American named Tisquantum, better known as Squanto, found himself caught between two worlds. Born into the Patuxet tribe in present-day Massachusetts, Squanto initially encountered European settlers in 1614 when Captain John Smith sailed along the coast. Smith returned to England, taking Squanto and several other Native Americans with him.

During his time in Europe, Squanto learned English and was introduced to European customs and traditions. A few years later, he embarked on a journey back to his homeland, only to discover that his village had been wiped out by a devastating epidemic, likely brought by earlier European visitors. Squanto was now alone.

The True Story of Squanto and the First Thanksgiving (Truth Behind Tradition)

by Julie McDonald(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	827 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	15 pages

FREE

The Encounter with the Pilgrims

As fate would have it, Squanto encountered a group of English settlers in 1620 who had just arrived on the shores of Cape Cod on a ship called the Mayflower. These Pilgrims, seeking religious freedom, were ill-prepared for the harsh New England winter and lacked the knowledge of survival in this foreign land.

Squanto, with his newfound English skills and thoroughly familiar with the local terrain, acted as a bridge between the Pilgrims and the Native American tribes. He taught them essential skills such as fishing, hunting, and agricultural techniques, including planting corn, beans, and squash together, which became known as the "Three Sisters."

The First Thanksgiving

In November 1621, after successfully harvesting their first crop, the Pilgrims celebrated their newfound prosperity by inviting the Wampanoag tribe, including their leader Massasoit, to join them in a feast of thanksgiving. It was a time of camaraderie, gratitude, and goodwill, as the Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a meal consisting of deer, turkey, fish, vegetables, and various other dishes.

While this event is commonly referred to as the first Thanksgiving, it was more of a harvest celebration and not an annual holiday as we know it today. There was no repetition in the following years, and it wasn't until 1863, during the American Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving as a national holiday.

The Legacy of Squanto

Squanto's role as a mediator between the Pilgrims and Native American tribes was instrumental in establishing peaceful relations, at least for a while. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the complex history of the relationship between European settlers and Native Americans, filled with moments of cooperation as well as conflict and mistreatment.

While Squanto's story is often romanticized as an example of harmony and unity, the reality was far more complicated. It is essential to delve beyond the myths and legends and explore the true complexities of history to fully understand the origins of Thanksgiving.

A Lesson in Gratitude

Ultimately, the story of Squanto serves as a reminder of the power of unity, empathy, and the importance of bridging cultural divides. Thanksgiving provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the past, acknowledge the hardships, and express gratitude for the blessings in our lives.

So, as you gather with your loved ones this Thanksgiving, take a moment to appreciate the true story of Squanto and the first Thanksgiving, understanding the truth behind the traditions we hold dear.

The True Story of Squanto and the First Thanksgiving (Truth Behind Tradition)

by Julie McDonald(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	827 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	15 pages

FREE

This short story, about a 10-15 minute read, is interesting, educational
and amazing! It is the true story of a young native man who was
captured as a slave, taken to Spain and England, then returned to his
homeland again just in time for the arrival of the Pilgrims. While
people of all ages will enjoy this story, it was written with grade
school children in mind.