Samson Occom
- Born:
- 1723, Mohegan territory near present-day Montville, Connecticut
- Died:
- July 14, 1792, New Stockbridge, New York
- Nationality:
- Mohegan
- Profession(s):
- Presbyterian Minister, Teacher, Writer, Activist
Early Life and Education
- Converted to Christianity during the Great Awakening in 1741.
- Educated by Eleazar Wheelock in his school in Lebanon, Connecticut, for four years.
- Self-taught in Hebrew, allowing him to study the Old Testament in its original language.
Career and Major Achievements
- Ordained as a Presbyterian minister in 1759.
- Served as a missionary to the Montaukett people on Long Island for over a decade.
- Raised significant funds for Eleazar Wheelock's school, which later became Dartmouth College.
- Founded the Brothertown Indian settlement in New York as a haven for Christianized Native Americans.
- Advocated for Native American rights and fair treatment by colonists.
Notable Works
- "A Short Narrative of My Life" (autobiography)
- Numerous sermons, many of which were published.
- Hymns, including several that became widely popular.
Legacy and Impact
Samson Occom's contributions as a minister, educator, and advocate for Native American rights left a lasting impact. His writings and sermons provide valuable insights into the experiences of Native Americans during the colonial period. The study of a document such as a 'Samson Occom biography' helps understand the dynamics of religious conversion, cultural assimilation, and resistance in early America. His efforts to establish the Brothertown settlement represent a significant attempt at self-determination and community building.