Chief John Smith, a figure synonymous with early American history, lived a life brimming with adventure long before his exploits in the New World. In 1600, driven by the call of battle and tales of conflict, Smith embarked on a journey to Austria to join the Christian forces of the Holy Roman Empire (HRE) against the Ottoman Turks. This marked the beginning of a whirlwind of European experiences that would forge him into a seasoned soldier and leader, setting the stage for his later transatlantic endeavors.
Smith’s journey to the Austrian front was anything but straightforward. He recounts an unexpected detour into naval service, joining a pirate ship in the Mediterranean Sea. This perilous stint as a pirate, while briefly diverting his course, proved financially rewarding, netting him 500 gold pieces. This newfound wealth allowed him to traverse Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia, finally reaching Austria and enlisting in the HRE army.
Serving in the ranks of the Holy Roman Empire, Chief John Smith quickly distinguished himself as a courageous and capable soldier. He engaged in numerous battles across Slovenia, Hungary, and Transylvania (modern-day Romania), earning accolades for his bravery under fire. His valor was recognized with a promotion to captain, a title he cherished throughout his life. Further solidifying his reputation, the Prince of Transylvania bestowed upon Smith the honorific title of “English gentleman.” This prestigious title came with a coat of arms featuring three Turks’ heads, a symbolic representation of Smith’s claimed victories in individual jousting duels where he beheaded three Turkish opponents. By 1602, Chief John Smith had become a celebrated military figure, renowned for his skill and leadership.
However, fortune is fickle. In 1602, Smith’s military success took a dramatic turn when he was wounded, captured in battle, and subsequently sold into Turkish slavery. His captors forced him on a grueling 600-mile march to Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), the heart of the Ottoman Empire. In Constantinople, Smith’s enslavement took an unexpected twist. He was presented as a gift to Charatza Tragbigzanda, his master’s fiancée. According to Smith’s own accounts, Charatza became enamored with him. Intrigued and perhaps hoping to convert him to Islam, she sent Smith to work under her brother, Tymor Bashaw. Tymor managed an agricultural estate in present-day Russia, near Rostov.
Instead of instruction or gentle guidance, Tymor Bashaw subjected Chief John Smith to brutal mistreatment. Smith endured the humiliation of a shaved head and an iron ring placed around his neck. He was deprived of adequate food and subjected to frequent beatings. During one particularly violent episode, Smith, pushed to his breaking point, overpowered Tymor, killing him and seizing the opportunity to escape. He fled his bondage on Tymor’s horse, wearing his clothing. Lost and uncertain of his path, Smith traveled for days until he encountered a Russian man and his wife, Callamatta, whom Smith affectionately called “this good lady.” Their kindness and assistance were instrumental in Smith’s recovery, allowing him to regain his strength and continue his arduous journey.
With renewed vigor, Chief John Smith traversed the vast landscapes of Russia, Ukraine, Germany, France, Spain, and Morocco. After years of wandering and overcoming countless obstacles, he finally returned to England in 1604. It is estimated that Smith’s European odyssey from 1600 to 1604 spanned nearly 11,000 miles, a testament to his resilience and determination. Captain John Smith, as he was now firmly known, had returned home, a seasoned adventurer shaped by the trials and triumphs of his European military escapades, unknowingly poised for his pivotal role in the history of the New World.
