Tisquantum

Tisquantum, more commonly known by the name Squanto, was a Patuxet man of the Wampanoag Confederacy in the early 17th century. He is best known for his role as an intermediary between the Plymouth Colony settlers and the Wampanoag and for assisting the Pilgrims in their first years at Plymouth.

In 1614, Squanto was captured by an English expedition led by Thomas Hunt and taken to Europe, where he was sold into slavery in Spain. He learned English during captivity and, after a period in Europe, returned to North America sometime before 1620. By then the Patuxet village had been devastated by a widespread epidemic, and Squanto found his people largely decimated.

Squanto soon came into contact with the Pilgrims at Plymouth. He served as an interpreter and guide, helping the settlers understand the terrain and establish relations with local tribes. He played a crucial role in negotiating a treaty between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag under Massasoit, contributing to a period of relative peace.

Agriculturally, Squanto is credited with teaching the settlers practical techniques suited to the region, including how to plant and fertilize crops such as maize, often described as using fish as fertilizer. He also guided them in fishing, hunting, and other seasonal activities that supported the colony’s survival during its formative year.

Squanto died in 1622 at Plymouth. The exact circumstances of his death and his burial site remain uncertain. His legacy lies in his unique position as a bridge between Native Americans and English settlers in the earliest years of sustained European presence in New England.