Here are some general perspectives:
* Some tribes saw him as a valuable ally: Champlain formed strong alliances with the Algonquin and Huron tribes, trading goods and helping them in their battles against the Iroquois. He even participated in their warfare, using his knowledge of European weaponry to their advantage. These tribes saw Champlain as a powerful friend and a source of valuable resources.
* Others viewed him with suspicion and mistrust: Many tribes were wary of the French presence, fearing their growing influence and the potential for exploitation. Champlain's role in warfare furthered these anxieties, as he often sided with one tribe against another, fueling existing rivalries and creating new enemies.
* Some tribes saw him as a threat: The Iroquois, who were often the targets of Champlain's alliances, viewed him as a dangerous enemy. They resented his involvement in the conflicts and saw him as a powerful and ruthless outsider who threatened their way of life.
* His reputation evolved over time: Champlain's initial interactions with the natives were largely peaceful, focused on trade and diplomacy. However, as he became more involved in the fur trade and the conflicts between tribes, his reputation shifted. Some natives came to see him as a manipulator, exploiting their resources and driving them to war.
It's crucial to avoid a simplistic view of Champlain's relationship with the natives:
* He was not a monolithic figure. His interactions varied significantly from tribe to tribe and throughout his career.
* Native perspectives were diverse: Not all natives shared the same opinions of Champlain. Some saw him as a friend, others as an enemy, and many held complex and nuanced views.
* It's important to consider historical context: The context of European colonization and the escalating conflicts between native tribes played a significant role in shaping the natives' perception of Champlain.
Ultimately, judging Samuel de Champlain through the lens of modern ethics is problematic. His actions, while sometimes beneficial, were often motivated by personal gain and the desire to further French influence. It's essential to understand the complexities of his relationships with the natives and the historical context in which they occurred.