John Smith: An Unconventional Portrait of Colonial Era

John Smiths personal account of the New World describes the land in a plausible way that leaves the reader with the impression that exploration is something to be considered. While his personal account is rather offset by his personal agenda, his description is still a reliable source that can be referred to when referencing the colonial period. So, while his publications may not be the most accurate a lot of information can still be drawn from his situation by referencing the secondary sources that describe Smith on a more personal account.
Taking the first step, looking at the sources. One can easily identify the hatred and egocentric aspects within Smiths life. While Smith seems to see himself as a leader, others saw him as one that wiggles himself into positions of power by playing off other people. His actions towards the Indians and his blatant disrespect for the powers governing him depicts him as a tyrant dictator. This is seen when Smith is ordered to step down as president of the colonies and refuses to do so, holding out until his original term expired on September 10th (Montgomery). Montgomery also shows what seems to be Smiths genuine attitude towards the natives that inhabit the land. While his own

This is what makes Smiths account important because it is a vital document for historians to exam and determine what prejudices the immigrant coming over might have had about the Indians. Rhetoric present within the document also shows an underlying reason for Smiths bright illustrations of the New World. It seems that he is advocating for colonization. This is more than likely due to the absurd death rates experienced in the colony of Virginia, and Smith seemed to have a large leadership presence in it. As he would convince colonial officers to name him part of the council and later would briefly become president (Oakes