John Howland is a name that not many people know, yet his significance to American history cannot be overstated. Born in England in 1599, Howland was one of the passengers on the Mayflower, the ship that transported the Pilgrims to Plymouth in 1620.
The Journey on Mayflower
The journey on the Mayflower was perilous, with rough seas and harsh weather conditions. At one point, a massive wave swept Howland overboard.
Despite being a non-swimmer, he managed to grab onto a rope trailing behind the ship and was pulled back onboard. His survival was nothing short of miraculous and made him an instant hero among his fellow passengers.
His Role as an Interpreter
Once the Pilgrims arrived in America, Howland proved to be an important member of the colony. He served as an interpreter between the Pilgrims and Native Americans since he had learned some of their language during his time as a merchant’s apprentice in London.
His Influence on American Politics
Howland’s significance extends beyond his role as an interpreter. He also played a vital role in American politics.
In 1634, he was elected assistant governor of Plymouth Colony, serving for more than two decades until his death in 1672. During this time, he helped establish laws that promoted religious tolerance and protected Native American land rights.
His Descendants
Howland’s legacy continues through his descendants. He and his wife Elizabeth had ten children who went on to have numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Some notable descendants include Franklin D. Roosevelt, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush – all former Presidents of the United States.
The Significance Today
Today, John Howland may not be a household name like Washington or Lincoln but his contributions to American history are immeasurable. Without his survival on the Mayflower, the course of American history may have been very different. His role as an interpreter and governor helped shape American politics and his descendants have gone on to become some of the most influential figures in American history.
- His survival story on the Mayflower made him an instant hero among his fellow passengers.
- He served as an interpreter between the Pilgrims and Native Americans.
- He established laws that promoted religious tolerance and protected Native American land rights.
- His descendants include several former Presidents of the United States.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, John Howland may be a lesser-known figure in American history, but his contributions are undeniable. From his miraculous survival on the Mayflower to his role as a governor, Howland played a vital part in shaping America’s early years. And his legacy lives on through his numerous descendants who continue to impact American politics and culture today.