John Eliot

Definition

John Eliot was a 17th-century English missionary known for his efforts to convert Native Americans to Christianity, specifically the Pequot and Massachusetts tribes. He is often referred to as the 'Apostle to the Indians' for his pioneering work in establishing praying towns, which were settlements aimed at integrating Indigenous people into colonial society while promoting Christian teachings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eliot arrived in New England in 1631 and quickly became involved in missionary work among the Native American tribes.
2. He published the first Bible printed in North America in 1663, translating it into the Massachusett language to aid in his missionary efforts.
3. Eliot's work led to the establishment of several praying towns, including Natick, which became models for other missions.
4. His approach to conversion was unique as he focused on learning Native languages and cultures instead of enforcing European customs immediately.
5. Eliot faced challenges from both Native American resistance and colonial settlers who were often skeptical or hostile towards Indigenous people.

Review Questions

• How did John Eliot's missionary work reflect the attitudes of English colonists towards Native Americans during the 17th century?
  • John Eliot's missionary work was deeply influenced by the Puritan belief that it was their divine duty to spread Christianity. He viewed Native Americans as souls in need of salvation, which was a common attitude among English colonists. However, Eliot also demonstrated a level of respect for Indigenous cultures by learning their languages and attempting to understand their way of life, which contrasted with many colonists who sought to impose their beliefs without consideration for Native traditions.
• Evaluate the impact of John Eliot's translation of the Bible into the Massachusett language on Indigenous communities.
  • Eliot's translation of the Bible into Massachusett significantly impacted Indigenous communities by providing them access to Christian teachings in their own language. This act not only facilitated better communication but also helped legitimize their understanding of Christianity within their cultural context. The translated Bible became an important tool for literacy and education among Native Americans, fostering a sense of agency as they engaged with Christian texts on their own terms.
• Assess how John Eliot's establishment of praying towns influenced subsequent interactions between Native Americans and European settlers.
  • The establishment of praying towns by John Eliot significantly influenced later interactions between Native Americans and European settlers by creating a framework for assimilation that had mixed outcomes. While these towns aimed to integrate Indigenous people into colonial society through Christianity, they also set a precedent for ongoing conflicts over land and cultural identity. The praying towns highlighted tensions between conversion and cultural preservation, shaping how both groups navigated their relationships and ultimately contributing to the complexities of colonial policies towards Native Americans.

Related terms

Praying Towns: Settlements established by John Eliot where Native Americans were encouraged to live in a Christian community, adopting European customs and religion.

Massachusetts Bay Colony: A Puritan settlement established in the early 17th century that served as the backdrop for Eliot's missionary work and efforts to convert Native Americans.

Bible Translation: John Eliot translated the Bible into the Massachusett language, making it accessible to Native Americans and facilitating their understanding of Christianity.