A narrative of the causes which led to Philip's Indian War, of 1675 and 1676

This historical account examines the tensions that led to the devastating conflict between New England’s Native communities and English settlers in 1675–1676. Rather than repeating a single side’s accusations, it focuses on the grievances, contested agreements, territorial disputes, and failed attempts at peaceful settlement that shaped the crisis. The narrative gives particular attention to the Native perspective, challenging portrayals that reduce their leaders and communities to simple villains.

Drawn from documents dating from the years surrounding the conflict, the book offers a close view of colonial politics as well as the growing strain between neighboring governments. Rhode Island’s commitment to religious liberty, its disputes with Connecticut, and its uneasy position among the New England colonies provide important context for the author’s emphasis on fairness and negotiation. Additional official records, including proceedings involving captured Indians, deepen this documentary portrait of a war marked by fear, mistrust, and competing claims to justice.