What did Sir Humphrey Gilbert think of the Indians? This question delves into the mindset of one of the earliest English explorers to reach North America. Sir Humphrey Gilbert, known for his voyages to discover the North West Passage, had a complex view of the indigenous people he encountered. While his primary goal was to find a new route to Asia, his interactions with the Native Americans provided insights into the perceptions and biases of his time.
Sir Humphrey Gilbert, born in 1537, was a knight and an explorer during the Elizabethan era. He embarked on his first voyage to North America in 1583, seeking a passage to Asia. During this journey, he and his crew landed in what is now Newfoundland, Canada. Their encounter with the Beothuk people, an indigenous group of Newfoundland, was a defining moment in his life and his perception of the Native Americans.
Gilbert’s view of the Indians was shaped by both his personal experiences and the prevailing attitudes of his time. He described the Beothuks as “a very fierce and cruel people,” which reflects the Eurocentric perspective that dominated the era. This perception was not uncommon among early English explorers, who often viewed indigenous people as savages to be conquered or converted.
However, Gilbert’s observations also reveal a more nuanced understanding of the Native Americans. In his journals, he mentioned the Beothuks’ hospitality, noting that they “gave us food and drink and did us all the kindness in their power.” This acknowledgment of the Beothuks’ kindness suggests that Gilbert recognized the humanity and generosity of the indigenous people he encountered.
Moreover, Gilbert’s admiration for the Beothuks’ resilience and adaptability is evident in his descriptions of their lifestyle. He noted that the Beothuks were “the most hardy people that ever I saw,” capable of surviving in the harsh climate of Newfoundland. This admiration was rare among early English explorers, who often viewed indigenous people as primitives.
Despite his nuanced view, Gilbert’s ultimate goal was to claim the land for England and exploit its resources. In his letter to Queen Elizabeth I, he wrote, “We may take the land, the fish, the fur, and the gold.” This reflects the broader colonial mindset of the time, which often led to the exploitation and mistreatment of indigenous people.
In conclusion, Sir Humphrey Gilbert’s view of the Indians was complex, influenced by both the Eurocentric biases of his time and his personal interactions with the Beothuks. While he recognized the kindness, resilience, and adaptability of the Native Americans, his ultimate goal was to claim and exploit the land. This duality in his perspective highlights the challenges and contradictions faced by early European explorers as they navigated the new world.
