The narrative of Pocahontas And John Smith is deeply embedded in popular culture, often romanticized and simplified. However, the recently published work, “The True Story of Pocahontas: The Other Side of History” (2007), by Dr. Linwood “Little Bear” Custalow and Angela L. Daniel “Silver Star,” offers a contrasting perspective. Rooted in the sacred oral history of the Mattaponi tribe, this book sheds light on the early life of Pocahontas, revealing a rich tapestry of family bonds, cultural upbringing, and the initial encounters with the English settlers, providing a crucial backdrop to understanding the context of Pocahontas and John Smith’s interaction.
Matoaka: Daughter of Wahunsenaca
Born Matoaka, meaning “flower between two streams,” Pocahontas was the cherished last child of Wahunsenaca, also known as Chief Powhatan, and his first wife. Her mother, a Mattaponi woman, passed away during childbirth. This name likely reflected her mother’s heritage and the location of the Mattaponi village nestled between the Mattaponi and Pamunkey Rivers. Wahunsenaca, grieving the loss of his wife, found solace in his daughter, affectionately calling her Pocahontas, meaning “laughing and joyous one,” a name reminiscent of her mother. This nickname, Pocahontas, would eventually become her more widely known name.
Despite the deep bond with her father, Wahunsenaca decided it was best for Pocahontas to be raised in the Mattaponi village, away from his capital Werowocomoco. There, she was nurtured by her aunts and cousins, who embraced her as their own, ensuring her upbringing within the traditions of her mother’s people.
Family and Childhood in Powhatan Society
After weaning, Pocahontas returned to Werowocomoco to live with her father. While Wahunsenaca had other children from his first wife and alliance wives, Pocahontas held a special place in his heart, and she reciprocated with deep love and respect. This strong paternal bond was a driving force behind their actions. Growing up with older siblings who held prominent positions in Powhatan society, Pocahontas was surrounded by a protective family who ensured her well-being and upbringing in accordance with Powhatan customs.
Childhood for Pocahontas was a distinct phase of life, marked by specific cultural norms. As a child, she would not have cut her hair or worn substantial clothing until reaching maturity. Powhatan society had clear distinctions in appearance and behavior between children and adults. Even in her youth, Pocahontas was subject to the discipline and expectations befitting the daughter of a paramount chief, receiving focused training and supervision, possibly even enhanced security due to her father’s special affection for her.
Initial Encounters with the English
When the English arrived in their lands, the Powhatan people, guided by their quiakros (priests), initially approached them with welcome. The Powhatan sought friendship and trade, viewing the English as potential allies. The quiakros, acting as spiritual leaders, political advisors, and historians, recommended a strategy of engagement and alliance. Wahunsenaca, respecting the wisdom of the quiakros, agreed with this approach, and the winter of 1607 saw the beginnings of this attempt to solidify friendship between the Powhatan and the newcomers, a period that sets the stage for the later, more complex interactions, including those with figures like John Smith.
Conclusion
Understanding Pocahontas requires looking beyond romanticized tales and delving into the rich context of her early life. Mattaponi oral history reveals a young Matoaka, deeply loved by her father, raised within a vibrant culture, and shaped by strong family bonds. This foundation is crucial for a more accurate understanding of her subsequent interactions with the English and her place in history, including her relationship with John Smith, which must be viewed within this broader cultural and historical context.
