The Deadliest War in American History (Per Capita)
King Philip’s War was a brutal conflict that erupted in New England in 1675, forever changing the relationship between Native Americans and English colonists. Though often overlooked in history books, this devastating war was proportionally the bloodiest conflict in American history, with more than 10% of the adult male population on both sides killed.
Who Was King Philip?
Despite his English name, “King Philip” was actually Metacom (also called Metacomet), a Wampanoag leader and the second son of Massasoit—the same chief who had helped the Pilgrims survive their first winter at Plymouth. After his father’s death, Metacom became the principal leader of the Wampanoag tribe. The English colonists called him “King Philip,” though he never used this title himself.
Causes of the Conflict
The war didn’t happen overnight. For decades, tensions had been building between Native Americans and English settlers:
- Land Disputes: As colonial settlements expanded, Native Americans lost hunting grounds and farmland.
- Cultural Misunderstandings: The English and Native Americans had fundamentally different views about land ownership and use.
- Broken Promises: Many treaties were violated as colonists pushed for more territory.
- Religious Tensions: Efforts to convert Native Americans to Christianity created resentment.
The final spark came when the Plymouth Colony tried and executed three Wampanoag men for the murder of John Sassamon, a Native American convert to Christianity who had warned colonial authorities about Metacom’s war preparations.
The War Begins
In June 1675, Metacom’s warriors attacked Swansea, Massachusetts, killing several colonists. This attack marked the beginning of a conflict that would spread throughout New England. Native American forces, including Wampanoag, Nipmuc, Pocumtuc, and Narragansett warriors, attacked and destroyed dozens of English towns.
A Brutal Conflict
The war was characterized by:
- Surprise Attacks: Both sides used guerrilla tactics, with raids on settlements and villages.
- Civilian Casualties: Women and children were killed on both sides.
- Scorched Earth Tactics: Entire towns and villages were burned to the ground.
- Shifting Alliances: Some Native American tribes sided with the colonists, while others joined Metacom.
Turning Point: The Great Swamp Fight
In December 1675, colonial forces attacked a Narragansett fort in the Great Swamp Fight, killing hundreds of Native Americans, including many women and children. This brutal battle turned the tide of the war in favor of the colonists.
The End of the War
By 1676, the Native American alliance was weakening. Food shortages, disease, and the loss of key leaders took their toll. In August 1676, Metacom was shot and killed by a Native American fighting for the English. After his death, his head was displayed on a pike in Plymouth for 25 years as a warning.
Lasting Consequences
King Philip’s War had profound impacts:
- Devastation: Over half of New England’s towns were attacked, with 12 completely destroyed.
- Population Decline: The Native American population in the region was reduced by 40-80%.
- Shifting Balance of Power: The war effectively ended Native American independence in southern New England.
- Economic Impact: The war cost the colonies approximately £100,000—an enormous sum at the time.
Legacy and Remembrance
Today, King Philip’s War is remembered as a tragic chapter in American history that highlights the complex and often violent nature of colonial expansion. Archaeological sites, historical markers, and museums throughout New England help preserve the memory of this pivotal conflict that shaped America’s early development.
Educational Resources
Online Learning Materials
- Interactive Timeline: Explore the key events of King Philip’s War through our interactive timeline
- Primary Source Collection: Read letters, accounts, and documents from both colonial and Native American perspectives
- Virtual Museum Tour: Visit important artifacts and historical sites without leaving your classroom
- Downloadable Lesson Plans: Grade-specific curriculum materials aligned with history standards
For Students
- Research Guide: Step-by-step assistance for writing papers on King Philip’s War
- Video Series: Short, engaging videos explaining different aspects of the conflict
- Interactive Maps: See how the war unfolded across New England territories
- Biography Collection: Learn about key figures from both sides of the conflict
For Educators
- Classroom Activities: Ready-to-use activities for various grade levels
- Discussion Guides: Thought-provoking questions to encourage critical thinking
- Assessment Tools: Quizzes, essay prompts, and project ideas
- Professional Development: Workshops and webinars on teaching colonial conflicts
On-Site Learning Opportunities
- Field Trip Programs: Age-appropriate guided tours of historical sites
- Living History Demonstrations: Experience colonial and Native American life
- Archaeological Workshops: Learn how historians uncover evidence about the war
- Annual Commemoration Events: Participate in remembrance ceremonies
Diverse Perspectives
- Native American Voices: Resources developed in partnership with Wampanoag, Narragansett, and other tribal historians
- Colonial Records Analysis: Critical examination of English primary sources
- Modern Interpretations: Contemporary scholarly views on the conflict’s significance
- Cultural Impact Study: How the war changed both societies forever