Atlantic Travelers: Indians in Eighteenth Century London

Sydni Stover

Native American History

Sept. 15, 2016

Atlantic Travelers: Indians in Eighteenth Century London

Until I read this chapter in this book, I had never thought about the fact that Indians traveled to Europe during the eighteenth century.  The thought of Indians traveling so far across the ocean had never crossed my mind.   Naturally, I found this source very intriguing.  Also, when people think of Indian travelers, one of the first people they think of is Pocahontas, so it was nice to read about other Native Americans that travelled to Europe.  The whole source was very enlightening.

        During one of our class days, we talked about how English settlers tried to convert Indians to their “civilized” way of life.  This source is a good example of the English settlers succeeding.  A lot of Native Americans were not very keen on that idea but some were.  I say this source is a good example because in a couple instances it explains how the Indian travelers would dress up in the “English manner” (page 202).  They were also treated like celebrities in some cases so I think this helped them covert to the English lifestyle.  I have to believe they were offended when they were told to change into “appropriate” attire (page 204).  From what I know Indians take their culture very seriously and they are passionate about it.  So I’m not convinced that they weren’t insulted by this.  However nonetheless, they did look more presentable and fashionable.

        The source says, the Native Americans were “impressed by London, but not too impressed,” (page 204).  Sure there was more complexity architecture, but it was much different than the simple ways they were accustom to.  If I put myself in the Native American’s shoes (as much as I can), I think I would feel the same way.  I would love to go to London one day, but there is nothing like home.  One earl said that Tomochichi “observed we knew many things his Country men did not, but doubted if we were happier, since we live worse than they, and they more innocently” (page 204).  I think what Tomochichi was saying was, the Americas were undeveloped, minimally polluted, and basically untouched.  Native Americans treated their land like it was sacred, never leaving a trace.  Could you imagine how beautiful the untouched land was back then?  It sure would have been a site to see.  I can only imagine what London looked like at the time. London was probably paved with streets, lined with pollution and sewage, maybe even rats.  The impressive side of London at the time was probably the size of the building, and the size of the city in general.  So to the Native Americans, I’m sure it was an experience to see London because it was completely opposite from what they knew.  On another account Mohegan Indian minister, Samson Occum, travelled to Britain to raise money for a new school in the heart of Indian country.  Shortly after he arrived, he was overcome with confusion from all the chaos in streets.  There were people singing, preaching, giggling, and laughing, while others were cursing, swearing, and damning each other.    

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