The term designates a conflict in 17th-century New England (1675-1678) between English colonists and the Wampanoag, Narragansett, and other Native American tribes. It is also referenced as Metacom’s War, after the Wampanoag chief who led the Native American forces. The armed resistance was triggered by increasing colonial encroachment upon Native American lands and attempts to impose English law and culture upon the Indigenous population. Notable events included attacks on colonial settlements, such as Lancaster, Massachusetts, and fierce battles like the Great Swamp Fight.
This historical event is significant for Advanced Placement United States History (APUSH) students because it represents a turning point in the relationship between colonists and Native Americans. It highlights the growing tensions and competition for resources that defined the early colonial period. Understanding the causes, course, and consequences of the conflict is crucial for contextualizing later events, such as the growing movement for independence and the continuing displacement of Native American populations.