Sassacus facts for kids
- Sassacus is also a genus of jumping spiders.
Quick facts for kids
Sassacus
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|---|---|
| Pequot leader | |
| In office 1632 – June 1637 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | c. 1560 |
| Died | Present-Day New York |
| Cause of death | Murdered by the Mohawk Tribe |
| Military service | |
| Battles/wars | |
Sassacus (Massachusett: Sassakusu meaning "fierce") was a powerful Native American leader. He was born around 1560 near what is now Groton, Connecticut. Sassacus was a sachem, which is a leader or chief, of the Pequot people.
He became the grand sachem in 1632. This happened after his father, Tatobem, was killed. Sassacus led the Pequot people during a very difficult time in their history.
Sassacus: A Pequot Leader
Sassacus was a significant figure among the Pequot people. He was known for his strength and leadership. His name, "Sassakusu," reflects his fierce and determined nature. He took on the role of grand sachem when the Pequot nation faced many challenges.
The Pequot War
The Pequot people were a strong Native American tribe. They lived in what is now Connecticut. However, tensions grew between the Pequots and the English colonists. The Mohegans, led by their sachem Uncas, were also involved. They rebelled against the Pequots' power.
This conflict led to the Pequot War. The war was fought between 1636 and 1637. Sassacus and the Pequots fought against the English colonists. The English had allies from other Native American tribes. These allies included the Narragansett and the Mohegan.
The Pequots were eventually defeated in the war. A major battle was the Fairfield Swamp Fight. This defeat greatly impacted the Pequot nation.
Sassacus's Final Days
After the Pequots were defeated, Sassacus tried to find safety. He fled to the lands of the Iroquois Mohawks. This area is in present-day New York. He hoped to find refuge there.
However, Sassacus was killed by the Mohawks in June 1637. His death marked the end of his leadership. It also brought a difficult period for the Pequot people.
