What was the Age of Pocahontas When She Passed Away

Pocahontas, a Native American woman, is a figure widely recognized for her role in American history. Born in 1596, the exact date of her birth remains unknown. However, her captivating story, intertwined with the English settlers of Jamestown, immortalized her name.

Pocahontas belonged to the Powhatan tribe, and she was the daughter of Chief Powhatan, the paramount chief of many Algonquian-speaking tribes in Virginia. Her birth name was Matoaka, but she later acquired the nickname “Pocahontas,” which means “playful one” or “mischievous one” in the Algonquian language.

Her life took an unexpected turn in 1607 when the English settlers, led by Captain John Smith, arrived in Virginia and established the Jamestown colony. Pocahontas was only 11 or 12 years old at the time. According to Smith’s account, Pocahontas saved him from imminent execution by throwing herself on top of him when her father, Chief Powhatan, was about to execute him. This act of mercy or diplomatic strategy prevented bloodshed and created a bond between Pocahontas and the English settlers.

Pocahontas would continue to interact with the English throughout her life. In 1613, at the age of around 16 or 17, she was kidnapped by Captain Samuel Argall during a gathering on the Potomac River. Argall hoped to use her as a bargaining chip to ensure the safe return of English prisoners held by the Powhatans. Pocahontas was taken to Jamestown, where she was held captive.

During her time in captivity, Pocahontas converted to Christianity and was baptized with the name “Rebecca.” In 1614, she married John Rolfe, a prominent English settler known for introducing tobacco as a cash crop in Virginia. This union between a Powhatan and an Englishman was seen as a potential reconciliation between the Native Americans and the colonizers.

In 1616, Pocahontas and John Rolfe embarked on a journey to England. The purpose of the voyage was to showcase the success of the Jamestown colony and garner support for further colonization efforts. Pocahontas was hailed as the “civilized savage” and treated as a celebrity during her time in England. However, tragedy struck during their trip, as Pocahontas fell ill with an unknown disease.

On March 21, 1617, at the age of around 20 or 21, Pocahontas passed away in Gravesend, England. The exact cause of her death remains unclear, with theories ranging from pneumonia to tuberculosis. She was buried at St. George’s Church, but the grave’s exact location was lost during the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Despite her young age, Pocahontas left an enduring legacy. Her story captured the imagination of generations, and her experiences served as a symbol of the early encounters between Native Americans and European settlers in America. She has been remembered through various writings, plays, and adaptations.

In conclusion, Pocahontas was likely around 20 or 21 years old when she passed away in England. Her story serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between Native Americans and the colonizers. While her actual age may be a mystery, her significance in the historical narrative will persist for years to come.