Colonists Quote by Felipe Fernández-Armesto
““in their supposed innocence of and opposition to empire, have become the mythic progenitors of the United States—almost as improbably as Solomon was of Ethiopia or Aeneas of Rome or his suppositious brother, Brut, of Britain. But almost everything most Americans think about the Plymouth colonists of 1620 is false. The truth is more credible. The first colonists in Massachusetts, exchanging accusations of “bestial, yea, diabolical affectations,” were as divided and conflicted as people usually are when fate flings them together. Their leaders did not seek””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Myth of the American Frontier, Felipe Fernández‑Armesto, 2002
Early American colonists were complex, conflicted people, not the pure, heroic pioneers often imagined.
In simple terms: Colonists were divided and flawed, not mythic heroes.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the messy reality of history.
Themes
history
mythmaking
colonialism
identity
conflict
Mood
critical
reflective
inquisitive
Type
historical
analytical
interpretive
When to use this quote
- education curricula
- public discourse
- museum exhibits
- media analysis
- genealogical research
Key Concepts
American exceptionalism
narrative construction
social division
Questions to Reflect On
- How does myth shape national identity?
- What voices are omitted in the dominant story?
A Different Perspective
The romanticized narrative can obscure injustices and diverse experiences.
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