Pocahontas

Pocahontas was a Native American woman from the Powhatan tribe. She was born around 1596 in what is now Virginia. She played an important role in the relations between her people and the English colonists at Jamestown. Her real name was Amonute.

Early Life

Pocahontas was the daughter of Chief Powhatan, a powerful Native American leader. She grew up near the English settlement of Jamestown. She was curious about the colonists and visited them often. She helped bring food to the struggling settlers.

A colorful old print showing Pocahontas saving John Smith.
A colorful old print showing Pocahontas saving John Smith. (New England Chromo. Lith. Co. / Wikimedia Commons)

Big Achievements

Pocahontas helped keep peace between the Powhatan people and the English colonists. She was captured by the English and later married colonist John Rolfe. She traveled to England, where she was presented to the king and queen. Her story became one of the most well-known in American history.

Fun Facts

  • Pocahontas was a nickname meaning playful one; her real name was Amonute.
  • She was about 11 years old when the English arrived at Jamestown.
  • She traveled to England and was received by King James I.

Did You Know?

The true story of Pocahontas is very different from the Disney movie. She was a real person who lived during a difficult time of conflict between cultures. She died in England at about age 21.