The Puritans who found Sassamon’s body had …

Years: 1675 - 1675
June

The Puritans who found Sassamon’s body had thought at first that he had drowned; soon, however, the Plymouth settlers began to think that he was murdered.

They become convinced of the fact when another native, Patuckson, claims he had seen three of King Philip’s men kill Sassamon and put him in the frozen pond.

The Puritans are convinced of Philip’s involvement in Sassamon’s death, although it is not clear what his motive may have been.

Some historians believe it was because of Sassamon’s apparent betrayal of Philip by reporting to Winslow of the future native attack while others believe it was because of Sassamon’s Christianity and his continuing efforts to convert Philip and other Indians.

On the testimony of a native witness, Plymouth Colony arrests three Wampanoags, including one of Metacom's counselors.

A jury among whom are some native members (The first in Plymouth to include a mixed jury of whites and natives) convicts them of Sassamon's murder; they are hanged on June 8, 1675, at Plymouth.

Some Wampanoag believe that both the trial and the court's sentence infringe Wampanoag sovereignty.

To the Puritans, the guilt of the three natives implies that Philip had been involved and they are outraged at this thought.

Both sides are becoming increasingly distrustful and frustrated at the other.

After the trial and executions, tensions between the natives and the Puritans are at a high.

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Northern North America (1675 - 1675)
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Northeastern North America (1675 - 1675)

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