Why was Squanto important to the Pilgrims?

Squanto, also known as Tisquantum, was a member of the Patuxet tribe who played a critical role in the survival of the Pilgrims, the English settlers who founded Plymouth Colony in what is now Massachusetts in 1620. Squanto was important to the Pilgrims for several reasons:

1. Communication: Squanto spoke English, which he had learned during his time in England, having been captured by an English sea captain and taken there before the Pilgrims' arrival. This allowed him to serve as an interpreter between the English colonists and the Native American tribes in the region.

2. Diplomacy: Squanto was instrumental in establishing a peaceful relationship between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe, led by Chief Massasoit. This alliance proved to be crucial for the Pilgrims' survival as it resulted in mutual protection and support.

3. Agricultural Guidance: Squanto taught the Pilgrims how to cultivate corn (maize), which became an important food source for them. He showed them the most effective methods for planting corn, using fish as fertilizer to enrich the soil.

4. Survival Skills: Beyond teaching them about agriculture, Squanto educated the Pilgrims on local fishing techniques, which bodies of water were best for harvesting seafood, and how to gather and identify other edible plants.

Thanks to Squanto's knowledge and assistance, the Pilgrims were able to overcome the harsh conditions of their first year in the New World, leading to their celebrated harvest in the Autumn of 1621. This successful harvest gave rise to the traditional American holiday known as Thanksgiving.