Taking It Home
But for the natives in these parts, God hath so pursued them, as for 300 miles space the greatest part of them are swept away by smallpox which still continues among them. So as God hath thereby cleared our title to this place, those who remain in these parts, being in all not 50, have put themselves under our protection. — Governor John Winthrop of Massachusetts, 1634
The story of Joshua and the battle of Jericho is one that has echoes in our national history. With people of all ages in your family, retell the stories that you have learned about the founding of your own town, county, state, or nation. Do you all know and understand the story the same way or are there different perspectives? Are there voices in your local history that are not usually heard (e.g. indigenous people, immigrant groups, child laborers, and women). Visit local history exhibits or talk with community elders to fill in some of the gaps. Share a more complete story of your community's founding with others.