John Smith

Alan J. Silva (Hamline University)
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As an explorer and statesman in an era of tremendous exploration and colonial expansion, John Smith traveled the world and helped to establish the Virginia Colony of North America. As writer and historian, Smith also provided insight into the peoples and places of North America, enabling later generations to explore and colonize New England. Yet Smith is most remembered today not for his extensive travels nor for his descriptions of the New World. He is most known for his encounter with the Native American girl Pocahontas and the ensuing, some would say infamous, story told by Smith and re-told in various forms and media by generations to follow. His tale of romantic rescue by the young daughter of an Indian chief continues to be the centerpiece of Smith’s life and work, amidst all of…

1303 words

Citation: Silva, Alan J.. "John Smith". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 18 January 2005 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/speople.php?rec=true&UID=4118, accessed 19 March 2024.]

4118 John Smith 1 Historical context notes are intended to give basic and preliminary information on a topic. In some cases they will be expanded into longer entries as the Literary Encyclopedia evolves.

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