Narragansett

Definition

The Narragansett were a Native American tribe located in present-day Rhode Island, known for their agricultural practices, trade networks, and resistance to colonial expansion. They played a significant role in the early interactions between Native Americans and European settlers in New England, particularly in the context of the New England Colonies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Narragansett were primarily farmers and engaged in trade with other tribes and European settlers, cultivating crops like corn, beans, and squash.
2. They formed an alliance with the English settlers initially, but relations deteriorated over time due to land disputes and colonial expansion.
3. The tribe's territory encompassed much of present-day Rhode Island and parts of Connecticut, making them one of the dominant tribes in the region.
4. During King Philip's War, many Narragansett joined forces with other tribes against English colonists but faced significant losses, leading to a drastic decline in their population and power.
5. Today, the Narragansett Tribe is recognized as a sovereign nation and actively works to preserve its culture, language, and history.

Review Questions

• How did the Narragansett tribe interact with early European settlers in New England, and what factors contributed to changing relationships?
  • Initially, the Narragansett tribe interacted positively with European settlers through trade and alliances. However, as colonists expanded their territories and demanded more land, tensions rose. The Narragansett faced pressures from settlers encroaching on their land, leading to conflicts such as the Pequot War and later King Philip's War. These changing dynamics ultimately turned their relationships from cooperation to hostility.
• Analyze the impact of King Philip's War on the Narragansett tribe and their status within New England during the colonial period.
  • King Philip's War had devastating effects on the Narragansett tribe, as they suffered heavy casualties and loss of territory. The conflict escalated tensions between Native Americans and colonists, resulting in a significant weakening of the Narragansett's political power and influence. The war led to a transformation of their status from a prominent tribe within New England to one struggling for survival amid increasing colonial dominance.
• Evaluate the legacy of the Narragansett tribe in modern America, considering their cultural preservation efforts and recognition as a sovereign nation.
  • The legacy of the Narragansett tribe is seen today through their ongoing efforts to preserve their culture, language, and traditions despite historical challenges. They have been recognized as a sovereign nation by the federal government, allowing them to exercise self-governance and promote economic development. Their resilience highlights important aspects of Native American identity in modern America and serves as a reminder of their historical significance in New England's colonial past.

Related terms

Pequot War: A conflict between English colonists and Pequot Indians in 1636-1638, which led to the near destruction of the Pequot tribe and increased tensions with other tribes, including the Narragansett.

King Philip's War: A violent conflict from 1675 to 1676 between New England colonists and Native Americans led by Metacom (King Philip), which involved the Narragansett and had devastating effects on both Native populations and colonial settlements.

Algonquian: A group of Native American tribes, including the Narragansett, who spoke Algonquian languages and shared similar cultural traits, forming a significant part of the northeastern indigenous landscape.