Third Grade Information on Pocahontas

Pocahontas was brave and giving.

For third graders, learning about U.S. history starts with the basics. The basics begin with learning about the interaction between Native Americans and Europeans upon their arrival in the New World. Children can learn from the story of Pocahontas that it is honorable to stand up for what you believe in, and that we should not judge others just because they are different.

Pocahontas

Pocahontas was a Native American born to the Algonquian people in 1595. Her name means "little playful one." Her father, Powhatan, was Chief of the tribe.

Meeting John Smith

A white man named John Smith came to Powhatan's village. Powhatan thought that white men living on his land was dangerous. Pocahontas thought that Smith looked friendly. Powhatan ordered a feast before talking to Smith. Smith told Powhatan that the white men came in peace, but Powhatan said Smith must die. When a warrior raised a stone club to kill Smith, Pocahontas saved him. John Smith was then named Nantaquoud by the tribe.

Pocahontas Saves Jamestown

Twelve braves took Smith to his people in Jamestown. Pocahontas helped save the Jamestown people by bringing them food. They were starving to death. Gifts were given to the tribe from the people of Jamestown for the food. Powhatan wanted guns, not these gifts.

Betrayal by Powhatan

Powhatan refused to give food to the settlers. Smith and his men pointed their muskets, which upset the Chief. He gave them food and vowed never to forget what they had done. Powhatan planned an attack. Pocahontas ran to warn Smith. Powhatan forbid Pocahontas to visit Jamestown again. Smith was shot during the attack and returned to England.

Pocahontas is taken Hostage

Pocahontas was taken as a hostage in 1613. After being taken hostage, she fell in love with John Rolfe. They married in April. Pocahontas and Rolfe had a baby named Thomas. In 1616, John and Pocahontas set sail for England.

Pocahontas Dies

Rolfe, Pocahontas and Thomas headed home to America. On her way home, Pocahontas died. She was 22. John and Thomas returned to the New World to live.

References

• Pocahontas
• Native Americans: Our Re-enactment of the First Thanksgiving