Life in Patuxet at the end of the 16th century was characterized by both hardship and adaptation. Here are four key details:
1. Arrival of the Pilgrims: In 1620, English Pilgrims arrived in the region aboard the Mayflower, seeking religious freedom. They settled in what is now Plymouth, Massachusetts, and encountered the Patuxet people, who had been severely impacted by diseases brought by earlier European explorers.
2. Population Decline: The Patuxet tribe had experienced a significant population decline due to diseases like smallpox introduced by European settlers. This depopulation had a profound impact on their society, making it more challenging to sustain their traditional way of life.
3. Subsistence Strategies: The Patuxet people relied on a combination of fishing, hunting, and agriculture for their subsistence. They fished in the nearby waters, hunted local wildlife, and cultivated crops such as maize (corn), beans, and squash.
4. Interaction with English Settlers: The arrival of the Pilgrims brought about interactions between the Patuxet people and the English settlers. Initially, there was some cooperation, as the Patuxet, especially Squanto, who had learned English, helped the Pilgrims adapt to the new environment and cultivate crops. However, these interactions eventually led to conflicts and tensions.
Overall, life in Patuxet at the end of the 16th century was marked by both resilience in the face of challenges and the beginning of significant changes brought about by the arrival of European settlers.