Pessicus facts for kids

Pessicus (also known as Mosomp or Maussup) was an important leader of the Narragansett tribe. He was born around 1623 and sadly died in 1676 during a big conflict called King Philip's War. Pessicus played a key role in his tribe's history during a time of great change and challenges with European settlers.

Early Life and Family

Pessicus was born around 1623. His father was named Mascus. He also had an older brother named Miantonomo. Miantonomo was also a very important leader for the Narragansett people.

Becoming a Narragansett Leader

In 1643, a sad event happened. Pessicus's brother, Miantonomo, was killed by the Mohegan tribe. After this, Pessicus stepped up to lead his people. He became a co-sachem (which means a chief or leader) of the Narragansett tribe. He shared this leadership role with his uncle, Canonicus.

The very next year, the Narragansett tribe made an agreement. They decided to accept the authority of the British king. This meant they would follow some rules set by the British government.

Seeking Justice for Miantonomo

Even though they had agreements with the British, Pessicus and Canonicus wanted justice for Miantonomo's death. They wanted to get back at the Mohegan tribe. Some colonial leaders, called the Commissioners of the United Colonies, did not want them to do this. But Pessicus and Canonicus still tried to get revenge for their brother and nephew.

Sole Sachem and King Philip's War

In 1647, Pessicus became the only sachem of the Narragansett tribe. This happened after his uncle Canonicus passed away. However, another strong leader named Ninigret sometimes challenged Pessicus's power.

When King Philip's War began, Pessicus first tried to find a peaceful solution. He wanted to avoid fighting. But as the war continued, he had to leave the Narragansett lands in the spring of 1676. Sadly, he was killed by the Mohawks near the Piscataqua area shortly after, by June of that year.

Legacy and Namesakes

Pessicus was known by several names, including Mosomp and Maussup. His name lives on in some places today.

• The village of Moosup in Plainfield, Connecticut, is named after him.
• A river and its valley, which flow from Rhode Island into the Quinnebaug River in Connecticut, are also named after Maussup.