American History Tellers: Episode 3 – Jamestown | The Starving Time

Hosted by Lindsay Graham and produced by Wondery, "American History Tellers" delves into pivotal moments that shaped America. In Episode 3, titled "The Starving Time," the series explores the dire circumstances faced by the Jamestown colony during the winter of 1609-1610, highlighting the struggles, conflicts, and pivotal decisions that nearly led to its demise.

1. Introduction to Jamestown's Plight

The episode opens in December 1609, painting a vivid picture of the desperate conditions in Jamestown, Virginia. With dwindling food supplies and harsh winter conditions, the settlers are on the brink of starvation. The narrator sets the scene:

“Imagine it's early in the morning in December 1609, in Jamestown, Virginia. You shiver as you slip outside the fort, the snow on the ground dampening your worn boots...” (00:00)

This introduction immerses listeners in the grim reality faced by the colonists, establishing the urgency and tension that permeate the episode.

2. Arrival of the Sea Venture Survivors

In August 1609, a fleet intended to reinforce and resupply Jamestown suffers a devastating hurricane, scattering the ships. Only a handful survive, with many landing in Bermuda. By May 1610, survivors, led by Sir Thomas Gates, finally reach Jamestown, only to find the colony in ruins:

“...the settlement resembled the ruins of some ancient fortification rather than one in which any living people might inhabit.” (05:35)

The arrival of these survivors exacerbates the already dire situation, as the food brought with them is mostly spoiled, deepening the scarcity in Jamestown.

3. Leadership Struggles and Internal Conflict

The episode delves into the internal strife within the Jamestown leadership. John Smith, the colony's prominent leader, faces opposition from John Ratcliffe and Gabriel Archer. Tensions rise as resources become scarcer, leading to power struggles. A notable exchange illustrates the burgeoning conflict:

John Smith (01:38): "No, that's mine."

John Smith (Lake according to context around 12:05): "The only deal I've made is to ensure your survival."

These confrontations weaken the colony's unity, making it vulnerable to external threats.

4. Escalating Tensions with the Powhatan

Resource competition leads to increased hostilities between the English settlers and the Powhatan tribes. Attempts by John Martin and George Percy to negotiate land on the Nansemond River fail disastrously. The English’ aggressive actions, including burning indigenous homes and desecrating sacred sites, provoke fierce retaliation:

“Furious, Nansemond surrounded them on all sides, waiting to take their revenge.” (08:00)

The Powhatan, already strained by a severe drought, respond with lethal force, resulting in significant loss of life among the settlers.

5. The Onset of the Starving Time

By winter, the colony faces the bleakest period in its history. Surrounded by hostile forces and cut off from food sources, Jamestown descends into chaos. George Percy, the new council president, captures the despair:

George Percy (16:50): "Now all of us at Jamestown feel that sharp prick of hunger which no man can truly describe but which hath tasted the bitterness thereof."

The settlers' plight worsens as starvation leads to cannibalism and rampant disease, decimating the population.

6. Arrival of Lord Delaware and Reorganization

In May 1610, Lord Delaware arrives with reinforcements and supplies, marking a turning point. Recognizing the colony's collapse, he imposes strict military discipline to restore order:

“Drawing on his military background, Delaware immediately set to work establishing order and discipline.” (20:00)

Delaware enforces the "Laws Divine, Moral, and Martial," mandating strict adherence to rules and punishing transgressions severely. This reorganization aims to stabilize the colony and bolster its defenses against the Powhatan.

7. Militarization and Expansion Efforts

Under Delaware’s command, Jamestown transforms into a militarized settlement. New forts are constructed, and aggressive campaigns against the Powhatan are launched. The episode highlights the brutal tactics employed:

“...he planned to use his same terror tactics against the Indians.” (25:00)

These actions temporarily secure the colony's survival but exacerbate the ongoing conflict, leading to continuous violence and loss.

8. The Kidnapping of Pocahontas

A pivotal moment occurs in April 1613 when Captain Samuel Argall orchestrates the kidnapping of Pocahontas, daughter of Chief Powhatan. The episode dramatizes this event through a recreated conversation:

John Smith (37:40): "I want your help abducting the girl."

Captain Argall (38:05): "I have no intention of going back. I order you to turn around." (22:56)

This act aims to leverage her release against English captives and resources, further intensifying the conflict and setting the stage for future interactions between the settlers and the Powhatan.

9. Continued Struggle and Conclusion

Despite the temporary stabilization brought by Lord Delaware, the colony remains fraught with challenges. Disease continues to ravage Jamestown, and the relentless conflict with the Powhatan takes a heavy toll. The episode concludes with the realization that while strict measures have averted immediate disaster, the long-term sustainability of the colony remains uncertain.

“By 1612, there was a growing chorus of complaints about the colony's oppressive laws and insufficient rations…” (28:00)

Notable Quotes Highlighted

• John Smith (12:05): "The only deal I've made is to ensure your survival."
• George Percy (16:50): "Now all of us at Jamestown feel that sharp prick of hunger which no man can truly describe but which hath tasted the bitterness thereof."
• John Smith (37:40): "I want your help abducting the girl."

Key Takeaways

• Leadership and Division: Internal power struggles significantly weakened Jamestown, hindering cooperative efforts to survive.
• Hostile Relations with Native Americans: Aggressive expansion and competition for resources led to intensified conflicts with the Powhatan, resulting in devastating losses on both sides.
• Survival Measures: Extreme conditions forced settlers to adopt harsh measures, including cannibalism and stringent military discipline, to sustain the colony.
• Impact of External Reinforcements: The arrival of leaders like Lord Delaware brought temporary stability but also escalated hostilities, highlighting the complex dynamics of colonial survival.

"The Starving Time" serves as a stark reminder of the immense challenges faced by early American settlers. Through vivid storytelling and detailed historical accounts, this episode captures the precarious existence of Jamestown, shedding light on the resilience and turmoil that defined the colony's early years.