Delving into the narrative of Pocahontas often brings forth romanticized tales, particularly those intertwined with Captain John Smith. However, a crucial aspect frequently overlooked is the rich oral history of the Mattaponi tribe, offering a profoundly different understanding of this significant historical figure. The book, “The True Story of Pocahontas: The Other Side of History,” published in 2007 by Dr. Linwood “Little Bear” Custalow and Angela L. Daniel “Silver Star,” meticulously recounts this sacred oral tradition, shedding light on the authentic story of Pocahontas, beyond the embellished accounts often associated with John Smith and popular culture.
Born into the Powhatan paramountcy, Pocahontas, whose given name was Matoaka, meaning “flower between two streams,” held a special place from the moment she entered the world. Her birth name likely reflected the geographical significance of her mother’s Mattaponi village, nestled between the Mattaponi and Pamunkey Rivers, and honored her dual heritage. Tragically, Pocahontas’s mother, the first and favored wife of Chief Wahunsenaca (Powhatan), passed away during childbirth, leaving a void in the chief’s life, yet her daughter became a source of immense joy and comfort.
Wahunsenaca, deeply grieving the loss of his beloved wife, affectionately nicknamed his daughter Pocahontas, translating to “laughing and joyous one,” a constant reminder of her mother’s vibrant spirit. Unquestionably his favorite child, Pocahontas shared an exceptional bond with her father. Despite this deep affection, Wahunsenaca, in accordance with Mattaponi custom, sent young Pocahontas to be raised in her mother’s Mattaponi village. There, nurtured by her aunts and cousins, she thrived within the embrace of her extended family, learning the traditions and values of her maternal lineage.
After weaning, Pocahontas returned to her father’s capital, Werowocomoco. While Wahunsenaca had other children, Pocahontas maintained a unique position in his heart, and her love and respect for him were equally profound. This deep familial love was the driving force behind their actions and decisions, a bond unwavering throughout their lives. Raised amongst older siblings who already held significant roles in Powhatan society, Pocahontas was surrounded by a protective family ensuring her well-being and guidance.
Pocahontas’s early life was distinctly different from her adult experiences, marked by cultural transitions in appearance and behavior as she matured. During her childhood, she would have foregone elaborate clothing and hairstyles, adhering to Powhatan customs until reaching womanhood. Despite her young age, Pocahontas was held to the high cultural standards of Powhatan society, with even greater expectations placed upon her as the paramount chief’s daughter. This privileged position also meant heightened supervision and training, ensuring her safety and preparing her for her future role within her community.
When the English arrived in their lands, the Powhatan people, guided by their quiakros (priests), initially welcomed them with open arms, seeking friendship and trade. These quiakros, serving as spiritual leaders, advisors, healers, and historians, advocated for integrating the English as allies. Wahunsenaca, heeding the wisdom of the quiakros, embraced this approach, laying the foundation for amicable relations during that pivotal winter of 1607, a stark contrast to the conflict-ridden narratives that often overshadow the initial period of contact, particularly those focusing on the embellished stories surrounding John Smith and Pocahontas.
