Metacomet (King Philip)
1639-1676
Contributions to Colonial Development
The main contribution of Metacomet was King Philip's War. This had many contributing factors, of which the most significant was the westward expansion of British colonies. Metacomet led the Natives in the war against the British Colonies.
The Significance and Effects of King Philip's War
The idea that Natives and Whites cannot live peacefully together was emphasized
The languages, culture, religion, beliefs and ceremonies of the conquered people fell into decline, to the point of extinction, after so many of the people were killed or sold into slavery
The fur trade in the area virtually disappeared
The colonists suffered a costly victory, both in economic and personal terms, but it opened up the land to further expansion.
- The continued expansion of the colonists was hindered after the war.
Family
Metacomet was born in 1639 in Rhode Island.
He became the leader of the Wampangoag tribe in 1662 after the death of the father and brother.
Wife- Wootonekanuske Pokanoket (married 1662)
Daughter- Anne Philip (born 1655)
Son- Menton Philip (born 1667)
Brother- Chief Alexander Pankkanoket
Mother- Saunka Massasoit
Political Affiliations
Loyal to his Native American tribe Wampangoag.
As chief, he attempted to maintain peace with the colonies in order to protect his people, but as the colonies continued to expand, he took action.
He led the Native Americans in King Philip's War, a war against the expanding British colonies.
King Philip's War
Key Terms
Citizenship and Integrity
Integrity- the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness.
After attempting peaceful relations, he remained true to his heritage and morals, and did not give in to the expanding British colonies.
Citizenship- the character of an individual viewed as a member of society; behavior in terms of the duties, obligations, and functions of a citizen.
Metacomet was the leader of his tribe, and maintained his citicenship by leading his people into battle. He fought with his tribe in a futile attmet to maintain their way of life.
However, from a British point of view, he did not show good citizenship. He gave up on peaceful relations and fought back agains the colonies which he had supported earlier.