John Eliot's First Indian Teacher and Interpreter Cockenoe-de-Long Island and The Story of His Career from the Early Records

"John Eliot's First Indian Teacher and Interpreter Cockenoe-de-Long Island and…" by William Wallace Tooker is a journey into the life of Cockenoe, a Native American from Long Island who became vital to John Eliot's missionary work in the 1600s. The book recounts his early experiences, beginning with his captivity during the Pequot War and continuing through his transformation into a key figure bridging the gap between Native Americans and English settlers. Cockenoe's linguistic abilities made him an indispensable teacher and interpreter for Eliot, assisting in the translation of religious texts and playing a significant role in communication. The story highlights Cockenoe's navigation of the tricky relationship between Native tribes and colonial authorities, showing his part in land deals and disagreements. Through historical documents and accounts, the book paints Cockenoe as more than just an interpreter, but as a crucial link between two different worlds whose impact is still felt today.