Occom, Samson | Bernd C. Peyer (essay date 1997)
Bernd C. Peyer (essay date 1997)
SOURCE: “Samson Occom and the Vision of a New England Christian Indian Polity,” in The Tutor'd Mind: Indian Missionary-Writers in Antebellusm America, University of Massachussetts Press, 1997, pp. 54-116.
[In the following essay, Peyer surveys Occom's complete body of work, stressing the “vision of a New England Christian Indian ‘Body Politick’” expressed throughout his writings.]
Samson Occom's Remarkable life history spans a dark period in the evolution of Indian-white relations in North America, dominated by suspicion and hatred on both sides. In spite of severe health problems and permanent disillusionment with Anglo-Saxon ethnocentrism, the “Pious Mohegan” managed to establish a solid reputation as an ordained Presbyterian minister, best-selling author, accomplished hymnist, and widely acclaimed orator. In his difficult role as cultural broker during troubled times he never once...
[The entire page is 9408 words long]
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