Final answer:
Squanto and Samoset taught the Pilgrims critical agricultural skills, such as using local herring to fertilize the soil for growing maize. Squanto also acted as an interpreter, facilitating a lasting peace treaty with local tribes. These contributions were essential to help the Pilgrims survive in the New World.
Step-by-step explanation:
Skills Taught by Squanto and Samoset
Squanto and Samoset, Indigenous individuals from the Wampanoag Confederacy, taught the Pilgrims vital survival skills. Squanto, who had previously been kidnapped by English explorers, learned English and eventually returned to his homeland. He shared his knowledge of local agriculture with the Pilgrims, teaching them how to use local herring to fertilize the soil for growing maize. These new farming methods allowed the crops to flourish, which was essential for the Pilgrims' survival. Samoset, who had learned English from fishermen, helped ease communication and relations with the local tribes. In addition to agricultural advice, Squanto also served as an interpreter between the Pilgrims and Native American tribes, which culminated in a peace treaty that lasted for 24 years.
The skills taught by Squanto and Samoset were crucial for the Pilgrims as they faced starvation, disease, and harsh winters upon their arrival in the New World. By teaching them effective farming methods and helping to forge alliances through treaties, these Native Americans enabled the Pilgrims to establish a sustainable settlement and survive the early challenges of colonization.