Summary
Pocahontas might be the most famous Native American woman in U.S. history. But the story that most people have heard about her—that she saved the life of Jamestown leader Captain John Smith—isn’t even true! Actually, Pocahontas was only about 10 years old when British settlers first arrived at Jamestown. She was the daughter of Wahunsenecawh, leader of the powerful Powhatan Confederacy, an alliance of tribes in Virginia. As a child, Pocahontas was a frequent visitor to the Jamestown settlement—and a symbol of goodwill. Years later, her marriage to a Jamestown farmer ushered in a long period of peace between the two nations. As for that tall tale? It was told by Smith himself—and only after Pocahontas had died at age 22. Click "play" to learn more about the true story of Pocahontas!
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching Pocahontas:
- What is one new thing you learned about pocahontas?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining pocahontas.
- Draw or give one example of your own.