Early Relations Between the Indians and the English

Introduction 

The Indians and the English were involved in trade practices through the exchange of various commodities. However, this relationship was greatly strained due to various reasons. The two groups did not place the same value on the various commodities that they traded. Furthermore, the English did not give the Indians the commodities that they desired. Finally, the Indians were suspicious of the English as they suspected them of harboring other intentions besides trade. 

Cultural Differences among the Indians and the English 

The Indians and the English held different cultural values. This is evident from the Powhatan’s attitude towards copper as he valued a basket of corn over a basket of copper. 1 This can be explained by the agricultural background among the Indians. On the other hand, the Smith viewed copper as a valuable commodity and hoped to have more in the next year. 2 Another cultural difference is exhibited through the symbolic meaning of items among the two groups. For Powhatan, the guns and swords that the English men were carrying symbolized fighting while the English considered these weapons as part of their costumes . 3 Powhatan was convinced that the English intended to harm them with the weapons that they were carrying. 

Evidence That the Leaders Were Talking Past Each Other 

During their conversation, Powhatan keeps emphasizing to Smith that his main intention was to wage war against the Indians as opposed to trading. 4 He goes ahead to explain to Smith that the Indians were unable to visit England as they feared them due to the fact that they carried guns. Additionally, his other trade partners give him the commodities that he desires and also acknowledge him as king. On the other hand, Smith informs Powhatan that the English have not taken any action against the Indians despite the fact that they keep on violating their peace agreement. 5 He also informs Powhatan that they have observed peace due to their own will and not because they would suffer due to lack of commodities that the Indians provided. Furthermore, Smith cannot give in to Powhatan as he is not his God nor king 

Evidence of Powhatan’s Accurate Views 

According to this article, Smith is giving an accurate report of Powhatan’s views. This is shown by details that he provides concerning his siblings. 6 Furthermore, he also provides the king’s trade relations with other traders where he is not present. 

Conclusion 

The English carried out trade activities with the Indians. However, these relationship was strained due to cultural differences. Furthermore, the Indians were suspicious of the English as they felt that they were after war as opposed to trading 

Bibliography 

Smith, John. John Smith and Powhatan Exchange Views , 1608 

1 Smith John Smith and Powhatan Exchange Views , 1608 

2 Ibid 

3 Ibid 

4 Ibid 

5 Ibid 

6 Ibid