Indian/Settler Conflict
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Objectives:

1. Student will determine the reasons why after 15 years of mutual coexistence, the Indians and English settlers decide to push the other out of the Chesapeake region.

2. Students will analysis and debate assuming roles of each side.

Relevance

This lesson allows students to understand the problems of two cultures trying to share the same land. This is a common pattern that has and still does occur all over the world. It also shows students an account of what happened in a graphic yet realistic way. It also incorporates higher reasoning and decision-making through role playing.

Involvement of Learners

Set the backdrop for the students. Chief Powhatan has just died. His brother Opencancanough has become the leader of what remains of his once vast nation. The tribes are declining in population due to European disease (which they perceive as evil spirits brought by the English). However, more importantly the English population is growing and they are spread through the area. They have also driven your people off of the James River. In a last ditch effort to regain their lands and preserve Indian culture in 1622 they attack the settlers wiping out almost 1/3.

Explanation / Activity

Divide the class into two groups: the Indians and the settlers. Have the two groups defend their groups stance against the other or have them design their own plan.

English Background The settlers have finally stabilized enough for more people to come to Virginia. The settlements have spread through the area. Although, death is common people are starting to come due to the growth of tobacco. Then, soon after the English started a school (Varina Indian School) to christianize young Indians, they attack. They massacre families, children, and burn houses and crops. Keep in mind, survival is tough enough, 2/3 of all settlers die within a year of arrival. Eventually, leaders of the colony determine to wipe out the Indians. Give each group time to decide their argument. Then have each group, elect an ambassador to declare their intentions. Next, allow all students to discuss their opinions.

Closure:

As the debate ends, leave the class with one question to respond on in an essay for homework.

• Would the Jamestown colony have survived had the Indians decided to declare war in the 1607-1612 years?

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