A Description of New England; Or, The Observations, and Discoveries of Captain John Smith, (admiral of that Country) Book Summary
In the North of America, in the Year of Our Lord 1614; with the Success of Six Ships that Went the Next Year 1615 ... with the Proof of the Present Benefit this Country Affords ...
TL;DR
Captain John Smith's 'A Description of New England' offers a detailed account of the region's geography, resources, and potential for settlement, aiming to attract English colonists.
What is A Description of New England; Or, The Observations, and Discoveries of Captain John Smith, (admiral of that Country) about
'A Description of New England; Or, The Observations, and Discoveries of Captain John Smith' is a historical narrative that provides a comprehensive look at the coastal regions of New England from Cape Cod to Penobscot. Written in 1616, the book describes the area's fishing, soils, inhabitants, fauna, flora, and climate. It marks the first use of the term 'New England' to describe this part of North America. Smith's primary purpose was to document his observations and demonstrate the potential benefits of settling in this fertile and resource-rich land.
A Description of New England; Or, The Observations, and Discoveries of Captain John Smith, (admiral of that Country) 6 Key Takeaways
The Term 'New England'
John Smith's work is the first to apply the term 'New England' to the region stretching from Long Island Sound to Newfoundland, defining the area in a way that became historically significant.
Geographical and Natural Observations
Smith provides a detailed account of the fishing, soils, flora, fauna, and climate of coastal New England, offering a vivid description of the region's natural resources.
Encouragement for Colonization
Smith wrote to encourage English settlers to migrate to America, emphasizing the benefits and opportunities available in New England for colonization and economic ventures.
Interactions with Indigenous Peoples
The book documents Smith's observations and interactions with the native inhabitants, providing insight into their culture and ways of life during the early 17th century.
Economic Potential
Smith discusses the successful voyages and the economic prospects of the region, highlighting the fishing industry and other natural resources as key benefits for future settlers.
Historical Context
The book provides a snapshot of early 17th-century exploration and colonization efforts, showcasing the ambitions and challenges faced by explorers like Smith.
Top A Description of New England; Or, The Observations, and Discoveries of Captain John Smith, (admiral of that Country) Quotes
- 'Here every man may be master and owner of his own labor and land.'
- 'Heaven and earth never agreed better to frame a place for man's habitation.'
Who should read A Description of New England; Or, The Observations, and Discoveries of Captain John Smith, (admiral of that Country)?
This book is ideal for historians, students of early American history, and anyone interested in the exploration and colonization of North America. It provides detailed, firsthand observations that are invaluable for understanding the early dynamics between European settlers and the New World.
A Description of New England; Or, The Observations, and Discoveries of Captain John Smith, (admiral of that Country) Best Reviews
- 'A Description of New England' is an invaluable primary source for understanding the early exploration and colonization of North America. Smith's detailed observations offer a fascinating glimpse into the natural and human landscape of New England.' - Historical Journal
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A Description of New England; Or, The Observations, and Discoveries of Captain John Smith, (admiral of that Country) FAQs
What is the description of New England by John Smith about?
Smith describes the fishing, soils, inhabitants, fauna, flora, and climate of the coastal region from Cape Cod to Penobscot. His work is the first to apply the term 'New England' to that part of North America.
What was John Smith's purpose in writing a description of New England?
Smith aimed to document his observations and highlight the benefits of the region to encourage English settlers to migrate to America.
What is the historical significance of 'A Description of New England'?
The book provides one of the earliest detailed accounts of the New England region and played a key role in promoting English colonization efforts in North America.