Captain John Smith, a name synonymous with early American history, was a seasoned adventurer long before he set sail for the New World. In 1600, drawn by the conflict between the Christian Holy Roman Empire (HRE) and the Ottoman Turks, Smith embarked on a journey to Austria to join the HRE forces. His path to military service was far from direct, marked by encounters that would shape him into the resourceful leader he was to become.
Smith’s voyage to Austria was punctuated by a stint as a pirate in the Mediterranean Sea. This daring episode not only added to his repertoire of experiences but also proved financially beneficial, netting him 500 gold pieces. This newfound wealth enabled him to continue his travels through Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia, ultimately reaching Austria and enlisting in the HRE army.
Serving the Holy Roman Empire, Captain John Smith distinguished himself in battles across Slovenia, Hungary, and Transylvania (modern-day Romania). His valor and military prowess earned him several accolades, most notably a promotion to captain – a title he cherished throughout his life. The Prince of Transylvania further honored Smith by bestowing upon him the title of “English gentleman” and a coat of arms. This heraldic symbol featured three Turks’ heads, commemorating Smith’s victories in individual jousting duels where he beheaded three Turkish opponents. By 1602, Captain John Smith had solidified his reputation as a skilled soldier and commander.
However, fortune turned against Captain John Smith in 1602. Wounded and captured in battle, he was subjected to the grim reality of Turkish slavery. Forced on a grueling 600-mile march to Constantinople, Smith’s resilience was tested as he faced an uncertain future. In Constantinople, his master presented the enslaved Captain John Smith as a gift to his fiancée, Charatza Tragbigzanda.
According to Smith’s own accounts, Charatza became enamored with him. She sent him to work for her brother, Tymor Bashaw, who managed an agricultural estate near Rostov, in present-day Russia. This was ostensibly an attempt to convert Smith to Islam. Instead of guidance, Tymor subjected Smith to harsh treatment, including shaving his head, placing an iron ring around his neck, starvation, and frequent beatings. During one brutal beating, Captain John Smith seized an opportunity, overpowering and killing Tymor. He then made a daring escape using Tymor’s horse and clothing.
Fleeing his captors, Captain John Smith journeyed for days, his route uncertain. He found unexpected kindness in a Russian man and his wife, Callamatta, whom Smith affectionately called “this good lady.” Their support was crucial in helping Smith regain his strength and continue his arduous journey. His travels took him across Russia, Ukraine, Germany, France, Spain, and Morocco, before he finally returned to England in 1604. It is estimated that Captain John Smith covered nearly 11,000 miles between 1600 and 1604, a testament to his incredible endurance and determination. Finally, Captain John Smith was home, but the lure of adventure would soon call him away once more.
