logo

59 pages 1 hour read

Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2006

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Nathaniel Philbrick

Mayflower

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

461

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

New England • 17th century

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Mayflower by Nathaniel Philbrick provides a nonfiction account of the Mayflower voyage and the Pilgrims' first fifty-five years in the New World, focusing on the nuanced relationship between the Pilgrims and the Native American Pokanoket tribe led by Massasoit. It explores their initial collaboration, influenced by mutual need, and the eventual breakdown of this bond, culminating in the tragic King Philip's War. The narrative includes descriptions of violence and historical injustices affecting Native American communities.

Informative

Challenging

Contemplative

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

47,687 ratings

70%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Nathaniel Philbrick's Mayflower is praised for its meticulous research and engaging narrative, offering fresh insights into the Pilgrims' journey and early American history. Some critics find the pacing uneven, particularly in the latter sections. Overall, it's a captivating read for history enthusiasts despite occasional slow segments.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Mayflower?

Ideal for history enthusiasts and fans of meticulously researched narratives, readers of Mayflower by Nathaniel Philbrick would enjoy the book's detailed exploration of early American history, similar to David McCullough's 1776 or Ron Chernow's Alexander Hamilton. This book appeals to those fascinated by the complex dynamics and stories of America’s origins.

4.2

47,687 ratings

70%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

William Bradford

A devout Separatist who became governor of Plymouth Colony after John Carver's death and played a vital role in the colony's early diplomacy and survival.

The sachem of the Pokanokets who formed an alliance with the Pilgrims to help his people, ensuring their mutual protection and success.

Massasoit's youngest son, also known as King Philip, who became the leader of the Pokanokets and is known for his role in King Philip’s War.

A settler and soldier who participated in King Philip's War and used his knowledge of Native Americans to assist the English forces.

A Native American who acted as an intermediary between the Pilgrims and Native American tribes, though his motives and trustworthiness were often questioned.

A non-Separatist and military leader of the Plymouth Colony, known for his aggressive tactics and involvement in colony defense.

The captain and part-owner of the Mayflower who assisted the Pilgrims in their early expeditions and settlement efforts.

A member of the Merchant Adventurers who helped arrange the Pilgrims’ voyage and later attempted to start his own settlement.

Massasoit's eldest son and a leader of the Pokanokets who faced challenges from the English during his rule.

The first governor of Plymouth who played a crucial role in establishing the colony before his sudden death.

A respected Pokanoket warrior and ally of the Pilgrims, who helped maintain peace and advised against Squanto’s actions.

An original settler who helped foster peace with Massasoit and became a significant diplomat, both in the New World and in England.

The son of Edward Winslow who later became the governor of Plymouth Colony and played a part in the tensions leading to King Philip’s War.

Book Details
Pages

461

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

New England • 17th century

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.