A Guide to Primary Resources for U.S. History : Metacom's Complaints -- the British George Mason University: "History Matters: Many Pasts" This text resource was written in 1675 by John Easton, Attorney General of the Rhode Island colony, and serves as a window into the relations between white settlers and Indians in the British colonies (specifically, in New England) in the colonies' early years. It relates certain complaints of Wampanoag leader Metacom (King Philip) that were recorded by British diplomats just before the outbreak of the bloody uprising later known as "King Philip's War." It gives students a rare opportunity to explore cultural encounters with the European newcomers from the Indians' point of view. Before reading the resource, students could list specific grievances they believe Native Americans of the 17th century might have against incoming European colonists. After a teacher-led discussion of these grievances, students could propose solutions to these problems, then read the online document. One of several role-play options would involve groups of students acting out skits involving Native Americans voicing the types of complaints expressed in the digital resource, European colonists responding to the complaints and including their own grievances, and impartial arbiters attempting to help these parties resolve their differences.

Metacom's Complaints -- the British
George Mason University: History Matters: Many Pasts

Description: This text resource was written in 1675 by John Easton, Attorney General of the Rhode Island colony, and serves as a window into the relations between white settlers and Indians in the British colonies (specifically, in New England) in the colonies' early years. It relates certain complaints of Wampanoag leader Metacom (King Philip) that were recorded by British diplomats just before the outbreak of the bloody uprising later known as "King Philip's War." It gives students a rare opportunity to explore cultural encounters with the European newcomers from the Indians' point of view.

Teaching Tips:

"Do Now" Suggestion

Before reading the resource, students could list specific grievances they believe Native Americans of the 17th century might have against incoming European colonists. After a teacher-led discussion of these grievances, students could propose solutions to these problems, then read the online document.

Suggestion for Using this Resource as Part of a Lesson

One of several role-play options would involve groups of students acting out skits involving Native Americans voicing the types of complaints expressed in the digital resource, European colonists responding to the complaints and including their own grievances, and impartial arbiters attempting to help these parties resolve their differences.