Ancient history

Why did the Powhatan fight English settlers?

Competition for resources

- The arrival of the English settlers took up lands that Powhatan peoples previously hunted, fished, and farmed from.

Cultural misunderstanding and clash of values

- Different social norms led to tension, such as differences in views on gender roles, property rights, and warfare.

Power dynamics & military conflicts

- English settlers sought to expand their power, leading to several military clashes with Powhatan Confederacy that viewed such expansionism as existential threats.

Incidents involving kidnapping and trade disruptions

- These escalated the conflicts between Powhatan tribes and English settlers.