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When the British established a small settlement on Roanoke Islands, they were the second visitors after the Spanish and French had partitioned North America. The Puritans were ready to compete for the land and riches at the expense of the Native Americans. The British were foreign to the New World. However, they were familiar with the system of colonization, as they had taken other lands elsewhere.
When they landed in North Carolina, they knew nothing about the Native Americans. Furthermore, the Puritans had little desire to learn their culture. However, they were aware of the importance of the natives, especially if they wished to survive in the region. In the earliest days of their settlement, the Native Americans and the Puritans related well. The native Americans valued the trade. They saw it as means of increasing general cooperation and binding the two. They provided them with clothing, food, and shelter (Carpenter, 2003).
The Puritans provided the Native Americans with metal tools like hatchets and knives. There was also the trade of knowledge. The Native Americans taught the Puritans how to be self-sufficient. However, as they continued to grow, they encroached more of the natives' land. Hence, there was a strain in their relationship. The cultural differences became rampant when the Puritan dependence decreased (Neal, 1844).
A large number of Native Americans died from diseases like influenza and small pox. The Puritans later started rebuking the natives, while excusing their behaviors.
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Thank you for the essay on ''Native Americans v Puritans'' essay. The work was word-perfect. The writer was precise. Good job! William, University of Cairo.
