Massasoit of the Wampanoags

Massasoit, Chief of the Wampanoag tribe from 1620 to 1661, was one of the most powerful native rulers of New England. He was instrumental in the survival of the early settlers at Plymouth. His faithful adherence to a treaty he signed with the pilgrims in 1621 allowed the two groups to enjoy a peaceful coexistence. History will show that these acts of kindness, however, are the beginning of the end of the Indian culture. Alvin Weeks, past Great Sachem of the Improved Order of Red Men of Massachusetts, wrote Massasoit of the Wampanoags. Weeks includes a brief commentary and sketches of other great chiefs, tribes and nations, including Samoset, Squanto and Hobamock.