Who was Metacomet, and what were his primary roles and titles?

Metacomet, also known by the names Pometacom, Metacom, and the English adopted name King Philip, served as the sachem, or elected chief, of the Wampanoag people. He held this position from 1662 until his death in 1676. He was the second son of the sachem Massasoit.

When and where was Metacomet born and when did he die?

Metacomet was born around 1638 in Massachusetts. He died on August 12, 1676, at the age of approximately 37 to 38 years old. His death occurred near Mount Hope, Rhode Island, specifically in Miery Swamp.

What was Metacomet's initial relationship with the English colonists?

Initially, Metacomet's primary objective was to maintain peace with the English colonists. A significant part of his responsibility involved engaging in trade with them. However, this peaceful coexistence deteriorated over time due to consistent negative interactions.

What was the main objective of King Philip's War, and who were the primary combatants?

King Philip's War, which took place from 1675 to 1678, was fought by the Wampanoag people, led by Metacomet (King Philip), against English colonists. The central aim of the war was to preserve Wampanoag land as the English colonies continued to expand their territories.

Who preceded Metacomet as sachem of the Wampanoag, and who succeeded him?

Metacomet's older brother, Wamsutta, who was also known as King Alexander, briefly served as sachem after their father Massasoit's death. After Metacomet's demise, Annawan became the sachem.

What were Metacomet's family connections, and who were his key allies and wife?

Metacomet was the second son of Massasoit. His older brother was Wamsutta (King Alexander). Wamsutta's widow, Weetamoo, the female sachem of the Pocasset, became Metacomet's ally and lifelong friend. Metacomet married Weetamoo's younger sister, Wootonekanuske.

What happened to Metacomet's wife and son after King Philip's War?

Following the defeat of the Native Americans in King Philip's War, Metacomet's wife, Wootonekanuske, and their only son were captured. His son, who was nine years old at the time, was subsequently sold into slavery in the West Indies, specifically Bermuda.

How did Metacomet and his brother receive their English names?

In the spring of 1660, Metacom's brother Wamsutta approached the Plymouth court to request English names for himself and Metacom. The court agreed, renaming Wamsutta to Alexander and Metacom to Philip. This practice often signified important life events for the Wampanoag, such as the death of Wamsutta's father.

What is the significance of the name 'King Philip' in relation to Wampanoag titles?

While the English referred to Metacomet as King Philip, the term 'king' does not have a direct translation in the Wampanoag language. Historians suggest that the title 'sachem,' which denotes an elected chief, is the closest equivalent in meaning to the Wampanoag leadership role.

What factors contributed to the outbreak of King Philip's War beyond land disputes?

Besides conflicts over land use and the expansion of colonies, King Philip's War was fueled by the diminishing game populations resulting from European settlement. Additionally, the Iroquois Confederation's activities in the Beaver Wars pushed other tribes westward, encroaching on Metacomet's territory and increasing regional instability.

What concessions did Metacomet make to the Plymouth Colony in 1671?

In 1671, leaders of the Plymouth Colony compelled Metacomet to make significant concessions. He surrendered a substantial portion of his tribe's armament and ammunition and formally agreed that the Wampanoag people were subject to English law. These concessions were made under pressure as colonial encroachment continued.

Describe the circumstances surrounding Metacomet's death.

Metacomet, known as King Philip, was fatally shot on August 12, 1676, in Miery Swamp near Mount Hope, Rhode Island. He was hunted by a group of rangers led by Captain Benjamin Church. The fatal shot was fired by a praying Indian named John Alderman, who was motivated by Metacomet's killing of Alderman's brother.

What happened to Metacomet's remains after his death?

After Metacomet was killed, his head was severed and mounted on a pike at the entrance to Plymouth, Massachusetts, where it remained for over twenty years. His body was dismembered into quarters and hung on trees as a grim display. John Alderman was given Metacomet's right hand as a trophy.

What was the fate of the remaining Native Americans after King Philip's War?

Following the conclusion of King Philip's War, surviving Native Americans who were not killed during the conflict were forced to relocate. Many joined other tribes or were moved to reservations. A significant number of Native American leaders were also sold into slavery.

How is Metacomet depicted in Mary Rowlandson's captivity narrative?

Mary Rowlandson, who was captured during a raid on Lancaster, Massachusetts, wrote a memoir detailing her experiences. In her narrative, she described meeting Metacomet while she was being held captive by his followers, offering a firsthand account of their interaction during the war.

How did Washington Irving portray Metacomet in his writings?

In his 1820 sketch 'Philip of Pokanoket,' published in The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent., Washington Irving presented a romanticized yet sympathetic version of Metacomet's life. This portrayal contributed to the literary image of the Wampanoag leader.

What was the significance of John Augustus Stone's play Metamora; or, the Last of the Wampanoags?

John Augustus Stone's tragedy play, Metamora; or, the Last of the Wampanoags (1829), was highly popular in the 1830s and 1840s. Its significance was amplified by the political context of Andrew Jackson's Indian Removal Act during that era. Notably, the play gave Metacomet a final speech before his death, which is contrary to historical accounts suggesting he remained silent.

How does Stephen Vincent Benét's short story 'The Devil and Daniel Webster' represent Metacomet?

In Stephen Vincent Benét's 1937 short story 'The Devil and Daniel Webster,' Metacomet is depicted as a villain from the colonists' perspective and is inaccurately shown as being killed by a blow to the head. However, Daniel Webster respects Metacomet as a figure who shaped American history. Metacomet serves as a juror in the 'trial of the damned,' ultimately siding with Webster against the Devil.

In what other forms of media has Metacomet been represented?

Metacomet has been represented in various media, including the 1995 film The Scarlet Letter, where he is shown as the Wampanoags' new chief after his father's death. He is also the subject of historical novels such as David Kerr Chivers' Metacomet's War (2008), John Christian Hopkins' Carlomagno (which imagines his son becoming a pirate), James W. George's My Father's Kingdom (2017), and a brief mention in the prologue of Tommy Orange's novel There There (2018).

What are some examples of places named in honor of Metacomet or King Philip?

Metacomet's legacy is commemorated in numerous place names. These include Metacomet Mill and King Philip Mills in Fall River, Massachusetts; the USS Metacomet, a U.S. Navy ship; the Metacomet Ridge mountain range; the Metacomet Trail and Metacomet-Monadnock Trail hiking paths; Metacomet Country Club; and various streets and roads across Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Historical sites like King Phillip's Cave and King Philip's Hill also bear his name.

Is there any known insect species named after Metacomet?

Yes, one insect species is named after Metacomet: Tipula metacomet, which is a species of large crane fly. The type locality for this species is in Amherst, Massachusetts.

What is the historical significance of the illustration 'Philip, King of Mount Hope' by Paul Revere?

The illustration 'Philip, King of Mount Hope' is a line engraving colored by hand by Paul Revere, created in 1772. It appears in Benjamin Church's work, The Entertaining History of King Philip's War, serving as a visual representation of Metacomet during that historical period.

What does the 1903 illustration depict regarding Metacomet's corpse?

A 1903 illustration shows Alderman and Benjamin Church inspecting Metacomet's corpse. This image visually represents the aftermath of King Philip's War and the treatment of the fallen Wampanoag leader.

What do the images of Miery Swamp and King Philip's Seat represent?

The images depict significant locations related to Metacomet. One shows the site of King Philip's death in Miery Swamp on Mount Hope, Rhode Island. Another image features 'King Philip's Seat,' identified as a meeting place on Mount Hope, Rhode Island.

What does the text suggest about the number of children Metacomet had?

The provided text indicates that Metacomet had only one son, who was captured and sold into slavery after King Philip's War. While it is unclear if he had other children, scholars note this single son.

What claim did the Mitchell family of Middleboro, Massachusetts, make regarding descent?

As late as the early 1900s, the Mitchell family, residing near Middleboro, Massachusetts, claimed to be descendants of the prominent Wampanoag leader Metacomet. This claim suggests a continued connection to the historical figure through lineage.

What was the Wampanoag custom regarding names, as mentioned in the text?

The Wampanoag people had a custom where new names marked significant moments in time. This practice is highlighted in the context of Metacom and Wamsutta requesting English names from the Plymouth court, which occurred following the death of Wamsutta's father.

Who was John Sassamon, and what role might he have played in the name change?

John Sassamon was a Christianized Native American, referred to as a neophyte. Author Nathaniel Philbrick suggested that Sassamon may have influenced Wamsutta and Metacom to request English names from the Plymouth court.

What were the primary tensions that led the Wampanoag people to resist English colonization?

The Wampanoag people resisted English colonization due to several escalating tensions. These included conflicts over land use as the colonies expanded, a noticeable decrease in game populations attributed to European settlement, and broader issues arising from the growing presence and influence of the colonists.

Where did Metacomet and his followers seek refuge during the war?

As the English colonists applied increasing pressure, Metacomet and some of his followers retreated to the large Assawompset Swamp, located in southern Massachusetts. They remained there for a period with his family and the remaining members of his group.

What happened to Metacomet's head and body after his death?

Following his death, Metacomet's head was displayed on a pike at the entrance to Plymouth, Massachusetts, for more than two decades. His body was quartered and hung on trees, serving as a stark warning and symbol of the war's conclusion.

What is the significance of the Metacomet Ridge and the Metacomet Trail?

The Metacomet Ridge is a significant geological feature, a mountain range spanning 100 miles (160 km) in southern New England. The Metacomet Trail is a 51-mile (82 km) hiking path located in central Connecticut, named in honor of the Wampanoag leader.

How is Metacomet remembered in the context of the Indian Removal Act?

Metacomet's story gained particular resonance during the era of Andrew Jackson's Indian Removal Act. John Augustus Stone's popular play 'Metamora; or, the Last of the Wampanoags' (1829) reflected the political climate of the time, highlighting the tragic displacement of Native American populations.

What specific Wampanoag territory was associated with Metacomet's leadership and death?

Metacomet was the sachem of the Wampanoag people, and his leadership was strongly associated with the Mount Hope area in Rhode Island. He died near Mount Hope, Rhode Island, in Miery Swamp, marking a pivotal moment in King Philip's War.

What role did tribal alliances play in Metacomet's strategy during King Philip's War?

Metacomet utilized tribal alliances as a key strategy to coordinate efforts aimed at pushing European colonists out of New England. These alliances were crucial for mounting a unified resistance against the expanding colonial settlements.

What does the name 'Wampanoag' signify in relation to Metacomet?

Metacomet was the sachem, or elected chief, of the Wampanoag people. The Wampanoag are a Native American tribe indigenous to the region of present-day southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island, whose land Metacomet fought to preserve.

What is the historical context provided by the reference to the Beaver Wars?

The Beaver Wars are mentioned in relation to the pressures Metacomet faced. This conflict involved the Iroquois Confederation fighting against neighboring tribes to the west, pushing them from their territories. This westward movement by the Iroquois encroached upon Metacomet's land, adding another layer of conflict and instability to the region.

What specific artifact was given to John Alderman after Metacomet's death?

After Metacomet was killed by John Alderman, Alderman was given Metacomet's right hand as a trophy. This gruesome memento symbolized the finality of the conflict and Alderman's role in it.

How long was Metacomet's head displayed in Plymouth, Massachusetts?

Following his death, Metacomet's head was put on display on a pike at the entrance to Plymouth, Massachusetts. This display lasted for a period exceeding two decades, serving as a potent symbol of the colonial victory.

Metacomet Wiki: Metacomet: Sachem of Mount Hope and the Crucible of Conflict

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Metacomet: An Overview

Identity and Title

Metacomet (c. 1638 – August 12, 1676), also known by variations such as Pometacom and Metacom, was the sachem (elected chief) of the Wampanoag people from 1662 until his death. He is widely recognized by his adopted English name, King Philip.^[1]^[2]

Initial Relations with Colonists

Metacomet's early tenure as sachem was marked by an initial objective to maintain peaceful relations and trade with the burgeoning English colonists. However, this posture evolved significantly due to escalating tensions and persistent negative interactions.^[4]

Lifespan and Demise

Born around 1638 in what is now Massachusetts, Metacomet's life concluded tragically on August 12, 1676, at approximately 37–38 years of age. He was killed near Mount Hope, Rhode Island, succumbing to a gunshot wound, an event widely considered the definitive end of King Philip's War (1675–1678).^[3]

Family and Alliances

Succession and Kinship

Metacomet ascended to the sachemship following the death of his elder brother, Wamsutta (King Alexander), in 1661. Metacomet harbored suspicions that his father, Massasoit, and subsequently Wamsutta, may have been poisoned due to English animosity towards Native Americans.^[5]

Key Relationships

Weetamoo, the female sachem of the Pocasset and widow of Wamsutta, became a steadfast ally and lifelong confidante to Metacomet. He later married her younger sister, Wootonekanuske.^[6]

Post-War Fate of Family

Following the conclusion of King Philip's War and the defeat of the Wampanoag, Wootonekanuske and Metacomet's only known son were captured. The young son was subsequently sold into slavery in the West Indies.^[7] The ultimate fates of any other potential children remain undocumented, though some families later claimed descent.^[8]

Names and Titles

Wampanoag and English Designations

In the spring of 1660, Metacomet and his brother Wamsutta appeared before the Plymouth court. At their request, and in accordance with Wampanoag custom marking significant life events, they were granted English names. Wamsutta became Alexander, and Metacomet became Philip. Historians suggest this may have been influenced by John Sassamon, an interpreter and Christian neophyte.^[9]

The Meaning of "King"

The English referred to Metacomet as "King Philip." However, the term "king" does not have a direct translation in the Wampanoag language. Scholars posit that "sachem," denoting an elected chief, is the closest equivalent in meaning and function.^[2]

King Philip's War

Genesis of the Conflict

King Philip's War (1675–1678) erupted primarily due to escalating conflicts over land use, the depletion of game resources resulting from colonial expansion, and broader socio-political tensions between the Wampanoag and English settlers. Metacomet sought to forge alliances with neighboring tribes to resist colonial encroachment.^[3]

Territorial Pressures

Concurrent territorial pressures from the Iroquois Confederation to the west further complicated the situation, pushing displaced tribes eastward and encroaching upon Metacomet's ancestral lands. Colonial leaders in Plymouth Colony imposed significant concessions in 1671, including the surrender of Native armaments and the acknowledgment of English legal authority.^[3]

The War and Metacomet's End

Hostilities commenced in 1675. Metacomet and his followers retreated to Assawompset Swamp in southern Massachusetts. After a prolonged period of pursuit by colonial rangers led by Captain Benjamin Church, Metacomet was fatally shot by John Alderman, a Praying Indian, in Miery Swamp near Mount Hope, Rhode Island, on August 12, 1676. This event is widely regarded as the war's conclusion.^[10]

Aftermath and Brutality

Following Metacomet's death, his wife and son were enslaved in Bermuda. His head was displayed on a pike in Plymouth for over two decades, and his body was quartered. John Alderman received Metacomet's right hand as a trophy. Many surviving Native Americans were killed, relocated, or sold into slavery, marking a devastating period for Indigenous peoples in New England.^[10]

Cultural Representations

Literary and Dramatic Portrayals

Metacomet's life and the war have been subjects of numerous artistic and literary works. Mary Rowlandson's captivity narrative offered a firsthand, albeit biased, account. Washington Irving's "Philip of Pokanoket" presented a romanticized perspective, while John Augustus Stone's play "Metamora; or, The Last of the Wampanoags" (1829) gave the sachem a powerful final voice, resonating during the era of Indian Removal.^[2]

Modern Interpretations

Stephen Vincent Benét's "The Devil and Daniel Webster" (1937) depicted Metacomet as a historical figure judged in the afterlife. More recent works include his appearance in the 1995 film "The Scarlet Letter," historical novels like David Kerr Chivers' "Metacomet's War" (2008) and James W. George's "My Father's Kingdom" (2017), and a mention in Tommy Orange's novel "There There" (2018).

Enduring Legacy

Places Named in His Honor

Numerous geographical features, institutions, and infrastructure bear Metacomet's name, reflecting his significant historical impact. These include:

Metacomet Mill and King Philip Mills in Fall River, Massachusetts.
The Metacomet Ridge mountain range and the Metacomet Trail in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
The USS Metacomet naval ship.
Various parks, hills, caves, and roads across New England, such as King Philip's Cave in Norton, Massachusetts^[11], and King Philip's Hill in Northfield, Massachusetts.
Metacomet Country Club in East Providence, Rhode Island.

Naming Conventions

Beyond places, the scientific community has honored Metacomet. The species of crane fly, Tipula metacomet, discovered in Massachusetts, is named in his memory, signifying the lasting imprint of his name across diverse domains.

Authority Control

Standardized Identifiers

Metacomet is cataloged across various international and national databases to ensure consistent identification and facilitate scholarly research:

Database	Identifier
ISNI	0000000078640973
VIAF	98117703
GND	119501120
FAST	1841257
WorldCat	E39PBJyrQ9v3q3Yrb6KyRmh8md
United States (Library of Congress)	n82063200
Israel (National Library)	987007349855305171
Yale LUX	86a58773-016b-49f8-b90b-af734f186246

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References

Lepore, Jill. The Name of War: King Philip's War and the Origins of American Identity, New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1998, page 303.

Lepore, J. (2019). "Chapter 2: Rulers and the Ruled". In These truths: A History of the United States. New York: W.W. Norton & Company.

"Blood and Betrayal: King Philip's War", History Net

History: MGA Links at Mamantapett, MGA Links (archived 2006)

A full list of references for this article are available at the Metacomet Wikipedia page

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Important Notice Regarding Historical Content

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, synthesizing information from the provided Wikipedia source material. It is intended solely for educational and informational purposes, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of Metacomet and his historical context.

Historical Accuracy and Interpretation: While efforts have been made to adhere strictly to the source material and maintain factual integrity, historical interpretation can be complex. This content represents a specific rendering of the available data and may not encompass all nuances or scholarly perspectives.

Not Professional Advice: This content does not constitute historical, legal, or any other form of professional advice. Users should consult primary sources and qualified historians for in-depth academic research or specific historical inquiries.

The creators of this page assume no liability for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.

Metacomet: Sachem of Mount Hope

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Metacomet: An Overview 👑

📜 Identity and Title

🤝 Initial Relations with Colonists

⏳ Lifespan and Demise

Family and Alliances 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

➡️ Succession and Kinship

🤝 Key Relationships

💔 Post-War Fate of Family

Names and Titles 🏷️

🗣️ Wampanoag and English Designations

👑 The Meaning of "King"

King Philip's War ⚔️

💥 Genesis of the Conflict

🗺️ Territorial Pressures

🏹 The War and Metacomet's End

💀 Aftermath and Brutality

Cultural Representations 🎭

📖 Literary and Dramatic Portrayals

🎬 Modern Interpretations

Enduring Legacy 🌳

📍 Places Named in His Honor

🦋 Naming Conventions

Authority Control 🔗

🗂️ Standardized Identifiers

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice Regarding Historical Content

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Metacomet: An Overview

Identity and Title

Initial Relations with Colonists

Lifespan and Demise

Family and Alliances

Succession and Kinship

Key Relationships

Post-War Fate of Family

Names and Titles

Wampanoag and English Designations

The Meaning of "King"

King Philip's War

Genesis of the Conflict

Territorial Pressures

The War and Metacomet's End

Aftermath and Brutality

Cultural Representations

Literary and Dramatic Portrayals

Modern Interpretations

Enduring Legacy

Places Named in His Honor

Naming Conventions

Authority Control

Standardized Identifiers

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice Regarding Historical Content