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How did Squanto learn English?

Squanto, also known as Tisquantum, learned English through a series of events that took place over several years.

Here's a breakdown of his journey:

* Kidnapped and Sold into Slavery: Around 1614, Squanto was captured by an English ship captain and sold into slavery in Spain.

* Escape and Journey to England: Squanto managed to escape and eventually reached England, where he lived for several years and learned the English language.

* Return to America: In 1619, he returned to his homeland, only to find his entire Patuxet tribe had been decimated by a plague.

* Meeting with the Pilgrims: Squanto encountered the Pilgrims who had recently settled at Plymouth. He acted as a mediator between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe, helping them negotiate treaties, teach them agriculture and survival skills, and establish trade relations.

While it's not clear exactly how long he spent in England or what kind of English education he received, it's likely he learned through a combination of:

* Informal Interactions: Spending time with English people, listening to their conversations, and gradually picking up their language.

* Formal Instruction: It's possible he received some formal education, though there's no concrete evidence.

* Necessity: As a bridge between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag, Squanto's English skills were essential for survival and communication.

It's important to remember that Squanto was a complex and fascinating figure, and his story is one of survival, cultural exchange, and resilience. His ability to learn English allowed him to play a crucial role in the early days of English settlement in America.

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