King Philip’s War Submission Sheet

Part 1: Before Reading Document A

• Sourcing: Examine the source before reading.
• Questions to Consider: Answer questions regarding the source before proceeding.

Document A: John Easton's Account

• Source Details:
  • Author: John Easton
  • Date: 1675
  • Context: Easton met Metacomet (King Philip) to prevent war between colonists and Native Americans; the meeting failed, leading to conflict.

Key Points from Document A:

• Sassamon, a Christian Indian, was found dead; suspected foul play by Indians for English favor.
• Tensions rose due to suspicion of an Indian plot against English.
• A meeting with King Philip revealed grievances:
  • English wronged Native Americans despite claims of vice versa.
  • Historical support from Native Americans to early colonists.
  • Unfair legal treatment where testimonies of many Native Americans were dismissed.
  • Unfair land transactions.

Questions on Document A:

1. Author: John Easton, a colonist.

2. Date: Before King Philip’s War.

3. Perspective: Not entirely fair to call it King Philip’s Perspective as it is reported by a colonist.

4. Context of Meeting: Rising tensions and suspicion of impending war.

5. Native American Complaints:

   • Historical mistreatment and broken agreements.
   • Unfair legal system favoring English colonists.
   • Unjust land acquisition practices.

Before Reading Document B

• Sourcing: Repeat sourcing process for Document B.

Document B: Edward Randolph’s Report

• Source Details:
  • Author: Edward Randolph
  • Date: 1675
  • Context: Randolph was sent to investigate the causes of the war for the English government.

Key Points from Document B:

• Various opinions on war causes:
  • Strict and intolerable colonial laws imposed on Native Americans.
  • Possible Catholic influence against English.
  • Disputes over land and unfair treatment of Sachem Philip.
  • Religous and moral reasons as per Massachusetts government.
• Economic impact on English: significant losses and destruction.

Questions on Document B:

6. Author and Purpose: Edward Randolph; the English government was concerned about colonial affairs impacting their interests.

7. Date: During or shortly after King Philip’s War began.

8. Predicted Causes: Likely to include religious, economic, and cultural tensions.

9. Colonist Theories:

   • Overbearing religious laws.
   • Manipulation by Catholic priests.
   • Land disputes and mistreatment of Philip.
   • Colonists do not blame themselves; rather external or moral failings are cited.

10. Colonist Attitudes: Generally dismissive and exploitative towards Native Americans; view them as heathens or uncivilized.

Argumentative Paragraph

Thesis: King Philip's War was caused by cultural misunderstandings, unfair legal and economic practices, and escalating tensions over land.

• Cultural Misunderstandings: The imposition of colonial laws and religious expectations created intolerable conditions (Document B).
• Unfair Practices: Legal systems and land deals were biased against Native Americans, leading to grievances (Document A).
• Land Disputes: Continuous pressure on Native lands fueled resentment and conflict (Documents A & B).

Closing Statement: The culmination of these factors fostered an environment ripe for conflict, leading to the outbreak of King Philip's War.