American History Tellers: Jamestown | Land of Milk and Honey | Episode 1

Introduction

In the premiere episode of American History Tellers, hosted by Lindsey Graham from Wondery, listeners are transported back to the early 17th century to explore the tumultuous beginnings of Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in mainland North America. This episode, part of the four-part series "Land of Milk and Honey," delves into the intricate dynamics between the English settlers and the indigenous Powhatan people, highlighting the myriad challenges that threatened the colony's survival from its inception.

Founding Jamestown: Ambitions and Deceptions

The episode opens in May 1607, on the Powhatan River, where English leader Captain Christopher Newport asserts dominance by renaming the river the James River, claiming the land for King James I. Lindsey Graham narrates the tension felt by the native Powhatan guide as Newport declares:

“This river shall henceforth be known as the James river, in honor of His Majesty King James I. Today I proclaim King James the sovereign of this land.”
— Christopher Newport [01:07]

Despite Newport’s proclamation, the Powhatan chief remains unconvinced, signaling the beginning of a pattern of deception that would define future English-native relations. The settlers, driven by profit and imperial glory rather than personal freedom or religious liberty, embark on a perilous journey fraught with uncertainty.

The Voyage to Virginia: Struggle and Conflict

In October 1606, the English fleet sets sail from London aboard three ships, including the Susan Constant, captained by Newport. The journey proves arduous, lasting six weeks longer than anticipated due to relentless storms. The cramped and unsanitary conditions aboard the ships lead to disease and burgeoning factions among the settlers.

A significant conflict arises when John Smith, a seasoned soldier with a contentious personality, is arrested on February 13, 1607, under accusations of plotting mutiny and seeking to become king. The tension between Smith and Newport epitomizes the internal strife that threatens the colony’s cohesion.

Establishing Leadership: Council Conflicts

Upon arrival in the Chesapeake Bay on April 26, 1607, the settlers establish Jamestown. However, leadership struggles persist as the Royal Council's secrecy surrounding the colony's governance exacerbates tensions. On May 14, Newport reaffirms English claims by planting another cross and renaming the Powhatan River, further alienating the indigenous population.

On December 1606, an incident on the Caribbean island of Nevis illustrates the volatile dynamics within the leadership. Newport attempts to execute Smith, deeming him a threat to colony discipline. However, Bartholomew Gosnold intervenes, sparing Smith’s life but revealing deep-seated animosity among the colonists.

Interactions with Powhatan: Captivity and Alliance

John Smith's interactions with Powhatan are pivotal. In December 1607, Smith is captured by Opeconkano, Powhatan's warrior brother, and taken to the Powhatan headquarters. Powhatan’s approach is strategic, aiming to secure the English as subordinates rather than enemies. A dramatic moment unfolds when Pocahontas, Powhatan’s daughter, intervenes to save Smith:

“What is it, Edmund? I have invested in a new venture. A voyage to settle a new colony in Virginia.”
— Captain Christopher Newport [13:39]

Smith's captivity leads to a complex relationship with Powhatan, characterized by mutual respect and strategic alliance. Upon his release, Smith returns to a colony in chaos, grappling with dwindling resources and mounting internal conflicts.

Struggles for Survival: Disease and Starvation

As summer turns to fall, Jamestown faces severe hardships. Disease ravages the settlement, and food shortages become critical. The lack of agricultural expertise among the predominantly gentleman settlers exacerbates the situation. Smith’s efforts to secure food, including trading and sometimes stealing from Native Americans, are both lauded and resented.

The episode highlights the brutal reality of survival, with half of the original 104 settlers dead by fall. Internal conflicts intensify, leading to accusations and executions that further destabilize the colony’s leadership.

Leadership Turmoil and Decline

By September 1607, the colony's leadership is in disarray. Edward Maria Wingfield, the original council president, is ousted by John Ratcliffe and others, illustrating the deep divisions within Jamestown’s governance. The settlers' paranoia and mistrust culminate in violent confrontations, undermining any semblance of order and cooperation essential for survival.

As the population dwindles and morale plummets, the Jamestown experiment teeters on the brink of collapse within its first eight months. The settlers face an uncertain future, with their initial hopes for gold and glory overshadowed by relentless adversity.

Conclusion

Episode one of American History Tellers masterfully captures the precarious foundations of Jamestown. Through vivid storytelling and insightful analysis, Lindsey Graham paints a picture of ambition, conflict, and resilience that defined the early years of the colony. The intricate interplay between the settlers and the Powhatan people, coupled with internal strife, sets the stage for the enduring legacy of Jamestown in American history.

Listeners are left anticipating the next episode, where a fire ignites further tensions, and the Virginia Company intensifies its efforts to sustain the struggling colony.

Notable Quotes

• Christopher Newport [01:07]:
  “This river shall henceforth be known as the James river, in honor of His Majesty King James I. Today I proclaim King James the sovereign of this land.”

• Captain Christopher Newport [13:39]:
  “What is it, Edmund? I have invested in a new venture. A voyage to settle a new colony in Virginia.”

• Christopher Newport [23:04]:
  “Smith is nothing but an ill bred upstart with illusions of grandeur.”

• Christopher Newport [36:37]:
  “You are hereby removed from your position as president. You will sail back to England as soon as it can be arranged.”

Production Credits

American History Tellers is hosted, edited, and produced by Lindsey Graham for Airship Audio, with editing by Christian Paraga, sound design by Molly Bond, music by Lindsey Graham, and voice acting by Joe Hernandez, Kolsky, and Victoria Ronnie. The episode was written by Ellie Stanton, edited by Doria Morena, produced by Alita Ryazanski, with managing producers Desi Blaylock and Matt Gantt, senior managing producer Ryan Moore, senior producer Andy Herman, and executive producers Jenny Lauer, Beckman, Marsha Louie, and Erin O'Flaherty.

Next Episode Teaser

In the following episode, listeners will witness how a stray spark ignites chaos in Jamestown, escalating tensions with the Powhatan and prompting the Virginia Company to launch a massive fundraising and recruitment campaign to support the beleaguered colony.

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