John Talcott facts for kids

John Talcott (born December 18, 1630 – died July 23, 1688) was an important leader in early Connecticut. He was known as both a politician and a military commander during the time when the American colonies were first being settled.

Early Life and Political Roles

John Talcott was born in 1630 in Braintree, Essex, England. His parents were John Talcott and Dorothy Mott. When he was two years old, in 1632, his family moved across the ocean to Cambridge, Massachusetts. A few years later, in 1636, they moved again to Hartford, Connecticut.

In Connecticut, John Talcott quickly became involved in the colony's government. In 1654, he was chosen as an assistant magistrate. A magistrate was like a judge or a high-ranking official. Later, from 1660 to 1661, he served as a deputy, which meant he was a representative for the people. From 1660 to 1676, he also worked as the colony's treasurer, managing its money.

Military Service and King Philip's War

John Talcott also had a long and important military career. He joined the Connecticut militia, which was a group of citizen soldiers, in 1650 as an ensign (a junior officer). Over the years, he was promoted several times. He became a captain in 1660, a major in 1673, and finally a lieutenant-colonel.

His most significant military role was during King Philip's War. This was a major conflict in New England between Native American tribes and English colonists. Talcott commanded a combined force of colonists and Native American allies, including warriors from the Pequot, Niantic, and Mohegan tribes.

From June 1676 through the fall of that year, Talcott led his troops in pursuit of various Native American groups across southern New England. He commanded his forces in several important battles. One notable event was at the Second Battle of Nipsachuck Battlefield. During this battle, Queen Quaiapen and Stonewall John, who were important Native American leaders, were killed. This battle was also one of the few times cavalry (soldiers on horseback) were used in the war.

After the war, the General Court, which was Connecticut's main governing body, rewarded John Talcott for his service. He and another leader, John Allyn, were given 700 acres of land at Hammonasset.