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This Land Is Their Land: The Wampanoag Indians, Plymouth Colony, and the Troubled History of Thanksgiving
Ahead of the 400th anniversary of the first Thanksgiving, a new look at the Plymouth colony's founding events, told for the first time with Wampanoag people at the heart of the story.
In March 1621, when Plymouth's survival was hanging in the balance, the Wampanoag sachem (or chief), Ousamequin (Massasoit), and Plymouth's governor, John Carver, declared their people's friendship for each other and a commitment to mutual defense. Later that autumn, the English gathered their first successful harvest and lifted the specter of starvation. Ousamequin and 90 of his men then visited Plymouth for the “First Thanksgiving.” The treaty remained operative until King Philip's War in 1675, when 50 years of uneasy peace between the two parties would come to an end.
400 years after that famous meal, historian David J. Silverman sheds profound new light on the events that led to the creation, and bloody dissolution, of this alliance. Focusing on the Wampanoag Indians, Silverman deepens the narrative to consider tensions that developed well before 1620 and lasted long after the devastating war-tracing the Wampanoags' ongoing struggle for self-determination up to this very day.
This unsettling history reveals why some modern Native people hold a Day of Mourning on Thanksgiving, a holiday which celebrates a myth of colonialism and white proprietorship of the United States. This Land is Their Land shows that it is time to rethink how we, as a pluralistic nation, tell the history of Thanksgiving.
In March 1621, when Plymouth's survival was hanging in the balance, the Wampanoag sachem (or chief), Ousamequin (Massasoit), and Plymouth's governor, John Carver, declared their people's friendship for each other and a commitment to mutual defense. Later that autumn, the English gathered their first successful harvest and lifted the specter of starvation. Ousamequin and 90 of his men then visited Plymouth for the “First Thanksgiving.” The treaty remained operative until King Philip's War in 1675, when 50 years of uneasy peace between the two parties would come to an end.
400 years after that famous meal, historian David J. Silverman sheds profound new light on the events that led to the creation, and bloody dissolution, of this alliance. Focusing on the Wampanoag Indians, Silverman deepens the narrative to consider tensions that developed well before 1620 and lasted long after the devastating war-tracing the Wampanoags' ongoing struggle for self-determination up to this very day.
This unsettling history reveals why some modern Native people hold a Day of Mourning on Thanksgiving, a holiday which celebrates a myth of colonialism and white proprietorship of the United States. This Land is Their Land shows that it is time to rethink how we, as a pluralistic nation, tell the history of Thanksgiving.
528 pages, Hardcover
First published November 5, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
November 21, 2021
Suffice to say, the story most of us have been taught about Thanksgiving and English settlement in the Plymouth Colony area is a bit on the sanitized and oversimplified side of things. Now while there is quite an abundance of literature out there that works to address the actual complexity of the matter, even these books still tend to address the history from a Pilgrim-centered point, as if they are still the primary players at the "start" of a fresh new nation. But the basic fact of the matter is that they were just a ragged bunch who anchored ship right in the middle of Wampanoag territory - one of several indigenous nations that had existed in the area for quite some time already in various shapes and forms. So since it was in their backyard that it all began, why can't the focus be grounded on the indigenous side for a change?
Thankfully, we now have precisely that much-needed shift of vantage point. Drawing upon everything that historical record can provide, David Silverman provides as rich a history of the Wampanoag tribe as one can possibly construct, stretching from pre-European contact through the beginnings of English settlement in the northeastern US, all the way up to the present day. This Land Is Their Land is a fantastic read for all those who want to give their historical perspective the long-overdue edit that has been necessary ever since whatever fateful day way back in school when we were presented with happy images of Pilgrims and feathered natives gathered around a cooked turkey.
Thankfully, we now have precisely that much-needed shift of vantage point. Drawing upon everything that historical record can provide, David Silverman provides as rich a history of the Wampanoag tribe as one can possibly construct, stretching from pre-European contact through the beginnings of English settlement in the northeastern US, all the way up to the present day. This Land Is Their Land is a fantastic read for all those who want to give their historical perspective the long-overdue edit that has been necessary ever since whatever fateful day way back in school when we were presented with happy images of Pilgrims and feathered natives gathered around a cooked turkey.
December 3, 2019
***I was granted an ARC of this via Netgalley from the publisher.***
When we think of Thanksgiving we usually think of time spent with family and plates filled with traditional Thanksgiving food. We make allusions to the circumstances of the first Thanksgiving in decorations featuring friendly pilgrims and Indians and if one is in school or has children in school perhaps a Thanksgiving play. But rarely do we think about the true circumstances surrounding the first Thanksgiving and the fraught reality of the relations between the Pilgrim and the Native Americans. This Land is Their Land by Daniel J. Silverman does just that, shining a light on a part of history many of us know little about. In this book, Silverman reveals to the reader a brief history of native peoples to the Americas before focusing on the Wampanoags, the Native Americans the Pilgrims first encountered, and the surrounding native peoples. He describes the complex culture of these peoples before their encounter with Europeans and what occurred after contact leading up to the pilgrims, most of which ended violently. He then covers the interactions between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoags and the reasons why the chief or sachem, Ousamequin, decided to establish relations with the Pilgrims. Silverman does an excellent job examining the relationship between the two groups and why they made the decisions they made which eventually ended in King Phillips War and almost destruction of the Native American culture in New England. However, Silverman highlights the strength of the Native Americans, their ability to adapt and resist erasure both physically and in history while encouraging the reader to take steps in their own lives to acknowledge the truth surrounding the first Thanksgiving. This is an excellent book that should be recommended reading for every American.
Rating: 5 stars. Would highly recommend to a friend.
When we think of Thanksgiving we usually think of time spent with family and plates filled with traditional Thanksgiving food. We make allusions to the circumstances of the first Thanksgiving in decorations featuring friendly pilgrims and Indians and if one is in school or has children in school perhaps a Thanksgiving play. But rarely do we think about the true circumstances surrounding the first Thanksgiving and the fraught reality of the relations between the Pilgrim and the Native Americans. This Land is Their Land by Daniel J. Silverman does just that, shining a light on a part of history many of us know little about. In this book, Silverman reveals to the reader a brief history of native peoples to the Americas before focusing on the Wampanoags, the Native Americans the Pilgrims first encountered, and the surrounding native peoples. He describes the complex culture of these peoples before their encounter with Europeans and what occurred after contact leading up to the pilgrims, most of which ended violently. He then covers the interactions between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoags and the reasons why the chief or sachem, Ousamequin, decided to establish relations with the Pilgrims. Silverman does an excellent job examining the relationship between the two groups and why they made the decisions they made which eventually ended in King Phillips War and almost destruction of the Native American culture in New England. However, Silverman highlights the strength of the Native Americans, their ability to adapt and resist erasure both physically and in history while encouraging the reader to take steps in their own lives to acknowledge the truth surrounding the first Thanksgiving. This is an excellent book that should be recommended reading for every American.
Rating: 5 stars. Would highly recommend to a friend.
July 25, 2020
This is a really personal and in-depth narrative of the relationships between Europeans and the Narragansett and Wampanoag nations in what’s now Massachusetts. It makes it clear how informed the Wampanoag were about the Europeans and how cautious they were and the plans they made to handle them. The personal relationships, the way Christianity worked, the gradual population surge of Europeans and their land use—it’s all so carefully laid out. This story had all been summarized in a couple sentences for me before but now I have a sense of all the nuance. The first Thanksgiving was much more complex than we think about. The greatest takeaway I had was how sad it is for current members of the Wampanoag nation and even other Indian groups to only hear about themselves at Thanksgiving and then the story is told that they just disappeared and aren’t around anymore. But they are still here and they deserve to be included as a more full part of the story than just as victims that disappeared. I loved the stories of the women leaders and the many Indians who crossed to England and Spain and then came back. They were pretty well informed. Tragically so many of them were sold into slavery in the Caribbean and in later years were kept in bondage to Europeans in ways that were essentially slavery. But in the early years, many learned English and were familiar with English law and used the courts to their advantage and advocated for themselves. The equality in agency of all groups was impressive. As was the desire of the Wampanoag to retain their identity and land and rights.
November 29, 2024
In
This Land Is Their Land: The Wampanoag Indians, Plymouth Colony, and the Troubled History of Thanksgiving
David Silverman makes his persuasive argument to all those who continue to view and perpetuate the Thanksgiving myth (the one you and I grew up with in schools, churches and at popular social events) - Plymouth Pilgrims and Squanto's people gathering on a particular day to celebrate peace and plenty and shared community - through the lens of American history books. He's talking to those who top it all off with a pageant of children in those roles, with the virtuous Pilgrims leading out, and stereotypic natives obediently taking what they get and giving all they have to the newcomers.
This author expertly tells the story from before the Mayflower landing in 1620 - there'd been many interactions between the Wampanoag people and ships from afar, and it had been a bumpy road. The fact that a number of the native people knew and spoke English. . .that should have brought up some questions at that point. Bottomline - the myth we've been dancing around is just a story we've got comfortable with, and which makes it easier to think our forefathers were the blessing the natives were waiting for, what they needed, what would give them purpose.
The truth is anything but that. The author walks readers through what happened when, and makes a good case and a genuine plea to sit down, brace yourself and . . . . change your mind. Think about this blessed land in a different way. It was never sitting empty, waiting as an unwrapped gift from God for worthy Christians to come and claim it.
It was Home for other people who worshipped just as fervently, adhered to their beliefs just as deeply, lived spiritual lives woven through with meaning and purpose as devout as that of the Puritans. And it had been their Home for thousands of years before that day in 1620. Until we came and took it.
Mr. Silverman suggests it is time for a real change of mind, a real change in how we teach our origin myth in order to find a real way to recognize and repair national, local, and personal relationships with indigenous peoples who've suffered at the hands of our ancestors.
On this day of gratitude, I encourage all who feel a flicker of interest to pick up Mr. Silverman's book and read it.
52:46
This author expertly tells the story from before the Mayflower landing in 1620 - there'd been many interactions between the Wampanoag people and ships from afar, and it had been a bumpy road. The fact that a number of the native people knew and spoke English. . .that should have brought up some questions at that point. Bottomline - the myth we've been dancing around is just a story we've got comfortable with, and which makes it easier to think our forefathers were the blessing the natives were waiting for, what they needed, what would give them purpose.
The truth is anything but that. The author walks readers through what happened when, and makes a good case and a genuine plea to sit down, brace yourself and . . . . change your mind. Think about this blessed land in a different way. It was never sitting empty, waiting as an unwrapped gift from God for worthy Christians to come and claim it.
It was Home for other people who worshipped just as fervently, adhered to their beliefs just as deeply, lived spiritual lives woven through with meaning and purpose as devout as that of the Puritans. And it had been their Home for thousands of years before that day in 1620. Until we came and took it.
Mr. Silverman suggests it is time for a real change of mind, a real change in how we teach our origin myth in order to find a real way to recognize and repair national, local, and personal relationships with indigenous peoples who've suffered at the hands of our ancestors.
On this day of gratitude, I encourage all who feel a flicker of interest to pick up Mr. Silverman's book and read it.
52:46
November 15, 2019
Another timely read for both Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Month, it is long past time to hear the "real" story behind the sanitized version children are often taught. Silverman shows that the stories you were likely taught if you were educated in the US are...not very true. From the founding of Plymouth to the now-known genocide of Native people, Silverman shows what is likely a much more accurate version of what happened.
It's an informative book but it also wasn't quite what I thought it would be. I thought it would be more focused on the concept of Thanksgiving itself, instead of a more in-depth history. Which is not wrong but I perhaps went into the book with a slightly different idea of what it is.
I also found it to be a tough read, not for the content (which in itself was interesting), but the author's writing style. He's a professor and...you can tell. I could very easily see this book as something that shows up in a syllabus for a class of the history of the US settlements and colonies, a class on Native history, etc. but it wasn't "light" reading at all.
Which is not to take away from the text but I'd recommend you take your time with the book to really learn from it but don't expect it to fly by , either. Library borrow was best for a non-school reader, I think.
It's an informative book but it also wasn't quite what I thought it would be. I thought it would be more focused on the concept of Thanksgiving itself, instead of a more in-depth history. Which is not wrong but I perhaps went into the book with a slightly different idea of what it is.
I also found it to be a tough read, not for the content (which in itself was interesting), but the author's writing style. He's a professor and...you can tell. I could very easily see this book as something that shows up in a syllabus for a class of the history of the US settlements and colonies, a class on Native history, etc. but it wasn't "light" reading at all.
Which is not to take away from the text but I'd recommend you take your time with the book to really learn from it but don't expect it to fly by , either. Library borrow was best for a non-school reader, I think.
July 30, 2023
I would encourage anyone who reads this book to also read Wampanoag scholar Linda Coombs’ criticism of it, particularly the portion of the book prior to King Phillip’s War.
I enjoyed this book and would have otherwise given it 5 stars, but in the acknowledgements, I read Silverman’s words: “I realize that this is not the book [Wampanoag people] would have written, or that future Wampanoag historians will write…”
This made me pause and wish I knew more about which narrative choices Silverman thought Wampanoag readers might disagree with. I did some Googling, and Coombs’ criticism gave me insight.
All in all, I’m glad I read it, because I can use this as a jumping off point to read work by Wampanoag authors. Undoubtedly, this is a story that every American sounds be aware of, and this book has the potential to start that conversation and education.
Unfortunately, I am now questioning the accuracy of some portions of the book. So, while I found it to be an important read at the time, I don’t think I can recommend it to others.
I enjoyed this book and would have otherwise given it 5 stars, but in the acknowledgements, I read Silverman’s words: “I realize that this is not the book [Wampanoag people] would have written, or that future Wampanoag historians will write…”
This made me pause and wish I knew more about which narrative choices Silverman thought Wampanoag readers might disagree with. I did some Googling, and Coombs’ criticism gave me insight.
All in all, I’m glad I read it, because I can use this as a jumping off point to read work by Wampanoag authors. Undoubtedly, this is a story that every American sounds be aware of, and this book has the potential to start that conversation and education.
Unfortunately, I am now questioning the accuracy of some portions of the book. So, while I found it to be an important read at the time, I don’t think I can recommend it to others.
November 4, 2021
An informative book about The Wampanoag Indians and the Thanksgiving myth. It opened up my eyes to some of the history we've been taught about Thanksgiving, and I'm glad I now have that view. While I learned a lot from this book, it was a really difficult read. It was more of a textbook than a nonfiction book in my opinion. The book also covered different topics than I was expecting. I enjoyed learning about The Wampanoags way of life (before being taken over by the colonists) and how the actual Thanksgiving went down but most of the book extended all the way to the late 1600s.
Either way, it's always a joy to have more knowledge about history.
Either way, it's always a joy to have more knowledge about history.
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November 30, 2024‼️‼️
April 10, 2020
Once you start reading this book it is likely you will continue with it to the end—this is gripping documented history that will have you on the edge of your seat in some parts, and shaking your head in others at how stupid humans can be. The time period covered is from near pre-history to our own contemporary time. Prepare for a clear eyed view of New England history (Hint: It's not peace and love between whites and Native Americans at a first Thanksgiving). The English and the Indians each had their faults, both moral and cultural; the differences appear to be in power and willingness to use it, exacerbated by different concepts of private and communal—as it still is today.
David J. Silverman is open about his thorough approach to historical documentation, and the Native American and English sources consulted to produce the most accurate account possible with currently extant sources. This adds to the confidence the reader may have in the veracity of the content in this book. The effect of this factual presentation is lasting.
From the historical account in this book it appears to me that "King Philip’s War (Metacom’s Rebellion)" in 1675-1676 was the inflection point for the acceleration of Native Americans' downward spiral from being independent nations. After that it was not much of a stretch to see the future coming of the Trail of Tears perpetrated by Andrew Jackson against Native Americans in the South—for the same expansionist reasons.
Zoom out from the narrative and you may see in the Europeans remnants of the Roman Empire, with its impetus for military conquest and taking of slaves. After Constantine it was a common presumption that the Empire was one and the same as the Kingdom of Jesus. The Native Americans who were "Praying Indians" embraced Christianity without the perspective of being part of European oriented Christendom—they studied the Bible and applied the Gospels through other than a European lens.
One possible result of the 21st Century thoughts described in this book might be the reorientation of our Thanksgiving holiday. We may dispense with the silly Pilgrim/Indian motifs, and instead embrace a Thanksgiving for all humanity. Let's hope that is sooner than later.
David J. Silverman is open about his thorough approach to historical documentation, and the Native American and English sources consulted to produce the most accurate account possible with currently extant sources. This adds to the confidence the reader may have in the veracity of the content in this book. The effect of this factual presentation is lasting.
From the historical account in this book it appears to me that "King Philip’s War (Metacom’s Rebellion)" in 1675-1676 was the inflection point for the acceleration of Native Americans' downward spiral from being independent nations. After that it was not much of a stretch to see the future coming of the Trail of Tears perpetrated by Andrew Jackson against Native Americans in the South—for the same expansionist reasons.
Zoom out from the narrative and you may see in the Europeans remnants of the Roman Empire, with its impetus for military conquest and taking of slaves. After Constantine it was a common presumption that the Empire was one and the same as the Kingdom of Jesus. The Native Americans who were "Praying Indians" embraced Christianity without the perspective of being part of European oriented Christendom—they studied the Bible and applied the Gospels through other than a European lens.
One possible result of the 21st Century thoughts described in this book might be the reorientation of our Thanksgiving holiday. We may dispense with the silly Pilgrim/Indian motifs, and instead embrace a Thanksgiving for all humanity. Let's hope that is sooner than later.
April 14, 2022
I always knew about the Trail of Tears and an assorted number of rebellions and skirmishes that Native Americans were involved in but this book opened my eyes to the sinister undercurrent of treachery and outright racism that took place almost from the beginning when white colonists first set foot on Plymouth Rock and paved the way for the horrors of "Manifest Destiny."
Native Americans took a serious risk in allowing them to live on their land (and it absolutely was their land, not some barren stretch of swamp devoid of human presence) and even went as far as supporting them in their first few winters as they starved to death and were incapable of weathering the harsh environment on their own.
How did colonists repay that kindness? Bureaucratic treachery, devious land deeds, and a justice system all set in place to work against them at every turn. Goading them into confrontations that eventually led to war, the spoils of which were scooped up at a moment's notice while the loser's heads were put on pikes in full display of the defeated Native Americans.
It turns out white colonists were the "savages" all along, not the Native Americans and I thank Mr. Silverman for opening my eyes to this reality. I can only hope this reality plays a stronger role in current and future US History curricula so as to educate and dispel the myths of Thanksgiving subservience.
Native Americans took a serious risk in allowing them to live on their land (and it absolutely was their land, not some barren stretch of swamp devoid of human presence) and even went as far as supporting them in their first few winters as they starved to death and were incapable of weathering the harsh environment on their own.
How did colonists repay that kindness? Bureaucratic treachery, devious land deeds, and a justice system all set in place to work against them at every turn. Goading them into confrontations that eventually led to war, the spoils of which were scooped up at a moment's notice while the loser's heads were put on pikes in full display of the defeated Native Americans.
It turns out white colonists were the "savages" all along, not the Native Americans and I thank Mr. Silverman for opening my eyes to this reality. I can only hope this reality plays a stronger role in current and future US History curricula so as to educate and dispel the myths of Thanksgiving subservience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 23, 2019THIS LAND IS THEIR LAND by David J. Silverman provides an impeccably well researched account of the true events that transpired surrounding the holiday that the United States celebrates as "Thanksgiving.." The text is illuminated with pertinent illustrations that help to bring the history of of the Wampanoag to life. This extensive book examines the history of the indigenous peoples that inhabited the United States before the white settlers came to America. Silverman shows that the Wampanoag and other tribes possessed their own complex civilization before pilgrims set foot on Plymoth Rock. Silverman does not shy away from the stark realities regarding the interactions between Europeans and Native Americans. Using a vast amount of historical evidence, he brings to light the often times shameful ways that the United States has dealt with the Indians. This is an excellent book for those who are interested in learning about the hidden side of history.
December 4, 2020
Truly a spectacular work of history.
December 13, 2019
a really crucial paradigm shifter - so emphatically appreciate the overall thesis of the book. Definitely a very deep deep textbook-like dive into the nitty gritty, though, which I found I lacked patience (or time) for. Some nice summary quotes:
"The Thanksgiving myth promotes the idea that this event involved Indians gifting their country bloodlessly to Europeans and their descendants to launch the United States as a great Christian, democratic, family-centered nation blessed by God. Yet nothing of the sort took place in the fall of 1621. The Wampanoags' alliance with Plymouth was not about conceding to colonialism. Their hope was that the English would provide them with military backing, martial supplies, and trade goods that would enable them to fend off the Narragansetts while they tried to recover from their losses to the epidemic of 1616-19. Once they returned to strength, they certainly expected to continue exercising dominion in their country over anyone living there, the English included."
"If the Wampanoags are as much our fellow Americans as the descendants of the Pilgrims, and if their history can be as instructional and inspirational as that of the English, then why continue to tell a Thanksgiving myth that focuses exclusively on the colonialists' struggle rather than theirs?"
"Dispense with the Thanksgiving myth, and focus more on the sentiment of being grateful." Amen.
"The Thanksgiving myth promotes the idea that this event involved Indians gifting their country bloodlessly to Europeans and their descendants to launch the United States as a great Christian, democratic, family-centered nation blessed by God. Yet nothing of the sort took place in the fall of 1621. The Wampanoags' alliance with Plymouth was not about conceding to colonialism. Their hope was that the English would provide them with military backing, martial supplies, and trade goods that would enable them to fend off the Narragansetts while they tried to recover from their losses to the epidemic of 1616-19. Once they returned to strength, they certainly expected to continue exercising dominion in their country over anyone living there, the English included."
"If the Wampanoags are as much our fellow Americans as the descendants of the Pilgrims, and if their history can be as instructional and inspirational as that of the English, then why continue to tell a Thanksgiving myth that focuses exclusively on the colonialists' struggle rather than theirs?"
"Dispense with the Thanksgiving myth, and focus more on the sentiment of being grateful." Amen.
August 4, 2023
Great read for a timeline of New England Native Americans, especially the Wampanoags, and their interactions with colonists (though the events in the book actually start at first recorded history of Natives in the area). I realized that I'm most interested in Native culture and spiritual beliefs, which is not a focus of this book. As such, I learned a lot but it was a dense, textbook-like read focusing mainly on political moves between the colonists and Wampanoags. Still well worth it for the information conveyed.
For more of my babblings, please visit my blog, Snug Shelf
For more of my babblings, please visit my blog, Snug Shelf
August 18, 2019
Wow. I'm not sure I will ever look at Thanksgiving, and especially the traditional images of the Pilgrims and Plymouth Rock, the same way ever again. There is a lot of information to digest in this book. Very eye-opening.
Thank you to NetGalley for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 18, 2025
Interesting Correction of History
I’m glad I took the time to read this and set history straight for me.
This was an interesting read about the origins of the Native American tribes that existed in New England before the English came and took nearly everything from them.
I’m glad I took the time to read this and set history straight for me.
This was an interesting read about the origins of the Native American tribes that existed in New England before the English came and took nearly everything from them.
July 18, 2023
An enlightening and important story of the true relationships between the Indians and colonists of Plymouth. The myth we learned in school is not what really transpired.
December 1, 2021
The raves are well merited, but let me flesh out a bit more with my experience reading the book itself. Silverman is a VERY clever writer indeed, and throughout the narrative kept an easy and accessible pace. Never overburdened, yet never flitting, the author managed to juggle the complex intertwining of characters, places and events in a way that was so easy to follow I was often pausing and impressed with the presentation itself!
Now, fair disclaimer; I am from exact and specific regions discussed in the story, so I bring to the book a clear picture of geographic detail. This could have made my read easier, but I think not; I do believe it is accessible to anyone from anywhere, without depth of knowledge about New England. granted, one might want to always keep a map or two handy while reading, but let's be honest: tat is ALWAYS a good idea when reading history, and not a failure of the text, which peppers a few map illustrations throughout.
I have not talked about the themes and topics at length because, in just about EVERY review I have seen, so many of the accolades and delight I would have given the book are already emphatically stated. He just does such a phenomenal job. The complexity of the stories and the way they interweave characters and incidents is high intrigue unto itself – it makes the plot lines of white fictional commodities like Game Of Thrones seem simplistic! That is NOT an exaggeration – this is jaw-dropping story drama, and none of it is fabricated; the facts are so unbelievably complex and densely woven as to need a breath from time to time just to wrap your brain around it. And yet, Silverman keeps you grounded and clear on all parties and places; for such intense complexity, you will not get lost.
There is something additional I consider, however. I am a white man from Massachusetts. Throughout, I was wondering if the impacts of the story was somehow due to some coded means of communicating that I know yet can't consciously describe. I am not sounding mystical, but just comparing to how easily digested this book was for me. I have read a few histories of American Indians, but usually written by Indigenous authors themselves. This Ione felt just a little different, and it was to my benefit, as I was often emotionally connecting. I kept puzzling if it was just flatly that Silverman is a good writer of history, or if there was baked into it some code of white pacing that I pick up on even if I can't directly point to. Either way, the point of the comment was that it digests VERY well. Not always comfortably – nor should it. But as I mentioned I was emotionally connecting w with story beats throughout, in a way that resonated within me and helped me integrate historical ideas I may have had familiarity with, but hadn't yet emotionally felt impact from (and hadn't even realized I hadn't!).
The only flaw (and it is SO minor that I will not downgrade my review) is how he briskly travels the last 150 years or so. Now, I know that would literally double the size of the book, and here we are focusing on the origins of the American Thanksgiving myth, and the story of the continent during the Wampanoag, but nonetheless you feel the speed-up in the last 40 or so pages. Now, as I mentioned it is minor, and not really a true flaw. I figured I would mention it because I would have loved to have known about the speed-up so I could anticipate it.
I would be lying to say I didn't want to read this again. That is a RARE response from me; I am a classic "one-and-done" reader, especially with non-fiction. But this gem of a history is nothing short of being one of the most important texts I've read in my 50 years on this rock. I am at once grateful and energized to continue seeking change.
Thank you Mr. Silverman. Thank you so much.
Now, fair disclaimer; I am from exact and specific regions discussed in the story, so I bring to the book a clear picture of geographic detail. This could have made my read easier, but I think not; I do believe it is accessible to anyone from anywhere, without depth of knowledge about New England. granted, one might want to always keep a map or two handy while reading, but let's be honest: tat is ALWAYS a good idea when reading history, and not a failure of the text, which peppers a few map illustrations throughout.
I have not talked about the themes and topics at length because, in just about EVERY review I have seen, so many of the accolades and delight I would have given the book are already emphatically stated. He just does such a phenomenal job. The complexity of the stories and the way they interweave characters and incidents is high intrigue unto itself – it makes the plot lines of white fictional commodities like Game Of Thrones seem simplistic! That is NOT an exaggeration – this is jaw-dropping story drama, and none of it is fabricated; the facts are so unbelievably complex and densely woven as to need a breath from time to time just to wrap your brain around it. And yet, Silverman keeps you grounded and clear on all parties and places; for such intense complexity, you will not get lost.
There is something additional I consider, however. I am a white man from Massachusetts. Throughout, I was wondering if the impacts of the story was somehow due to some coded means of communicating that I know yet can't consciously describe. I am not sounding mystical, but just comparing to how easily digested this book was for me. I have read a few histories of American Indians, but usually written by Indigenous authors themselves. This Ione felt just a little different, and it was to my benefit, as I was often emotionally connecting. I kept puzzling if it was just flatly that Silverman is a good writer of history, or if there was baked into it some code of white pacing that I pick up on even if I can't directly point to. Either way, the point of the comment was that it digests VERY well. Not always comfortably – nor should it. But as I mentioned I was emotionally connecting w with story beats throughout, in a way that resonated within me and helped me integrate historical ideas I may have had familiarity with, but hadn't yet emotionally felt impact from (and hadn't even realized I hadn't!).
The only flaw (and it is SO minor that I will not downgrade my review) is how he briskly travels the last 150 years or so. Now, I know that would literally double the size of the book, and here we are focusing on the origins of the American Thanksgiving myth, and the story of the continent during the Wampanoag, but nonetheless you feel the speed-up in the last 40 or so pages. Now, as I mentioned it is minor, and not really a true flaw. I figured I would mention it because I would have loved to have known about the speed-up so I could anticipate it.
I would be lying to say I didn't want to read this again. That is a RARE response from me; I am a classic "one-and-done" reader, especially with non-fiction. But this gem of a history is nothing short of being one of the most important texts I've read in my 50 years on this rock. I am at once grateful and energized to continue seeking change.
Thank you Mr. Silverman. Thank you so much.
November 25, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and would like to take this chance to respond to some of the criticisms launched against it. I’ve read Wampanoag scholar Linda Coombs’ overwhelmingly negative review of this book (available on JSTOR). I can’t help but wonder if she is underestimating the critical thinking skills of the book’s readership, or if some people truly came away with negative perceptions and reinforced misunderstandings of Wampanoag culture. If you look at the reviews on this site, a lot of American readers found it to be genuinely challenging and enlightening.
To David Silverman’s credit, he does encourage readers (only once, as I recall) to look towards Wampanoag scholarship if they want to learn more about the intricacies of their society, culture, and spirituality. He doesn’t claim to be writing a comprehensive social or cultural history of the Wampanoags. I do agree however, that some nuance is probably lost in Silverman’s effort to narrativize the events, and that his work could’ve benefited from incorporating alternative Wampanoag histories rather than an overwhelming focus on colonial sources.
Coombs is right to point out that some of his explanations of Wampanoag customs and beliefs border on seeming like dismissive generalizations, and readers should be cognizant of this before going into it. Silverman’s strengths lie in analyzing political, diplomatic, and military encounters between the Wampanoags and the English.
There is definitely something to be said about how the Indigenous Studies field (and its often radical character) are not incorporated into the scholarship of traditional early American historians. It is truly a shame, and this book is definitely a victim of that disconnect. Silverman acknowledges the value and validity of the militant attitudes of Indigenous activists, but ends the book optimistically remarking about educational reform in a way that feels a little tone deaf. Overall though, I would still recommend this book to others. I would just remind them to be mindful about the debates surrounding it, as obviously no book like this exists in a vacuum.
To David Silverman’s credit, he does encourage readers (only once, as I recall) to look towards Wampanoag scholarship if they want to learn more about the intricacies of their society, culture, and spirituality. He doesn’t claim to be writing a comprehensive social or cultural history of the Wampanoags. I do agree however, that some nuance is probably lost in Silverman’s effort to narrativize the events, and that his work could’ve benefited from incorporating alternative Wampanoag histories rather than an overwhelming focus on colonial sources.
Coombs is right to point out that some of his explanations of Wampanoag customs and beliefs border on seeming like dismissive generalizations, and readers should be cognizant of this before going into it. Silverman’s strengths lie in analyzing political, diplomatic, and military encounters between the Wampanoags and the English.
There is definitely something to be said about how the Indigenous Studies field (and its often radical character) are not incorporated into the scholarship of traditional early American historians. It is truly a shame, and this book is definitely a victim of that disconnect. Silverman acknowledges the value and validity of the militant attitudes of Indigenous activists, but ends the book optimistically remarking about educational reform in a way that feels a little tone deaf. Overall though, I would still recommend this book to others. I would just remind them to be mindful about the debates surrounding it, as obviously no book like this exists in a vacuum.
August 12, 2024
This is a great book that provides a deep look into the Thanksgiving story/ myth by going through a detailed history of the indigenous peoples of New England. I like the recommendation from the indigenous people at the end that Thanksgiving should be taught to young children as simply a day of thanks and then as they get older, teach about the checkered past of colonialism that shaped the holiday throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
July 10, 2023
With a son who majored in history, I was already aware of the problematic series of lies we learn about Thanksgiving from kindergarten on. This book, however, explores and explains the real story of the holiday, with an entertaining and interesting writing voice. It’s refreshing to see this kind of information presented without the snore factor.
January 1, 2022
Filled with myth busting facts, DS describes a more realistic initial Thanksgiving rife with power conflicts, survival politics and human greed. Sadly, this book impressed me with the horrific degradation of native people by invading Europeans. This nation began with racial and ideological conflict and it is still rife today.
Too sad: the whole story became too demoralizing to me and I opted to not finish the book. Maybe a bit of ostrich in me, but this history became too depressing for me.
Too sad: the whole story became too demoralizing to me and I opted to not finish the book. Maybe a bit of ostrich in me, but this history became too depressing for me.
March 18, 2023
The Wampanoag people’s stories have more courage and resilience than what you find in an American history textbook. I especially loved learning about Weetamoo and Awashonks, two amazing women in leadership. I recommend the video series Our Story which was produced in relation to the Plymouth 400 year anniversary.
I have so many notes and highlights from the text that it will take more time to compile them into a proper review. I’ll update later.
I have so many notes and highlights from the text that it will take more time to compile them into a proper review. I’ll update later.
December 1, 2024
An eye opening, well detailed history. Some parts maybe too detailed for me (I got a little cross eyed during King Philip's War) but it filled in a lot of gaps I didn't realize I had. Glad I read this, will have to see what else this author has written.
January 19, 2022
I listened to the audiobook. I think the subject material was great, super informative but I just could not get into this book. The 2 stars is purely on me- I couldn’t focus on the material. It is a dense book on an interesting time in history. If you enjoy that type of book then definitely pick this up.
November 7, 2023
Made it as far page 66 before I DNF. The topic is very interesting but I couldn’t understand anything.
December 1, 2023
Strongly researched and detailed (which may put off some) history that concludes with thoughts on what we can do now.
January 16, 2025
Every American teacher should read this before teaching anything about Thanksgiving to our students. Def heavy and wordy and LOTS of detail, but oh-so-necessary!
September 6, 2025
Everything we have been taught about the first Thanksgiving and “first contact” between colonists and natives is a lie. This excellent history sets the truth. Learned a lot.
November 24, 2020
The stories we perpetuate are often shadows of the truth. This in-depth, thoroughly researched book gives context and insight into the real story of colonization, treatment of the Native people, and Thanksgiving.
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