Description
The Pokanoket (also spelled Pakanokick) was governed by Massasoit (Wampanoag, c. 1581–1661). The term broadened to refer to all peoples and lands governed by Massasoit and his successors, which were part of the Wampanoag people in what is now Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Pokanoket is also spelled Pauquunaukit, and translates as "land at the clearing" from the Massachusett. Prior to colonization, the political seat of the many tribes that are collectively known as the Wampanoag was located at Pokanoket, where one historical site is found on Mount Hope in Bristol, Rhode Island. At the time of the pilgrims' arrival in Plymouth, the realm of Pokanoket included parts of Rhode Island and much of southeastern Massachusetts.
Language
Natick or Wampanoag
Culture
The characteristics of the Northeastern woodlands cultural area include the use of wigwams and longhouses for shelter and of wampum as a means of exchange. Wampum consisted of small beads made from quahog shells. The birchbark canoe was first used by the Algonquin Indians and its use later spread to other tribes and to early French explorers, missionaries and fur traders. The canoes were used for carrying goods, and for hunting, fishing, and warfare, and varied in length from about 15 feet to about 100 feet in length for some large war canoes. The main agricultural crops of the region were the Three Sisters : winter squash, maize , and climbing beans. Originating in Mesoamerica, these three crops were carried northward over centuries to many parts of North America.