Myles Standish: The Original American Badass

Picture this: It's the early 1600s, and a group of English settlers, known as the Pilgrims, have just landed on the rocky shores of what is now Massachusetts. Among them is a man who would become a legend in American history—Myles Standish. Born in Lancashire, England, around 1584, Standish was a military officer hired by the Pilgrims to protect their fledgling colony. He was a man of action, not words, and his no-nonsense approach to leadership and defense made him a pivotal figure in the survival of Plymouth Colony. Standish's story is one of grit, determination, and a refusal to back down in the face of adversity, making him a true American badass before America was even a thing.

First off, let's talk about Standish's military prowess. This guy wasn't just some random dude with a sword; he was a seasoned soldier who had fought in the Eighty Years' War in the Netherlands. When the Pilgrims needed someone to lead their defense against potential threats from Native American tribes and rival European settlers, Standish was their go-to guy. He didn't just sit around waiting for trouble to come knocking; he took the fight to the enemy. Standish led several preemptive strikes against hostile tribes, ensuring the safety of the colony. His aggressive tactics might make some modern-day pacifists squirm, but they were effective and necessary for the survival of the Pilgrims.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: Standish's relationship with the Native Americans. Sure, he wasn't exactly the poster child for diplomacy, but let's be real—this was the 17th century, and the world was a brutal place. Standish's primary responsibility was to protect his people, and he did so with ruthless efficiency. He understood that the best defense was a good offense, and he wasn't afraid to use force when negotiations failed. Some might call him a warmonger, but in reality, he was a man who understood the harsh realities of his time and acted accordingly.

Standish's leadership extended beyond the battlefield. He was a key figure in the administration of Plymouth Colony, serving as an assistant governor and treasurer. He was instrumental in establishing trade relations with Native American tribes, which were crucial for the colony's economic survival. Standish's ability to balance his military duties with his administrative responsibilities made him an invaluable asset to the Pilgrims. He wasn't just a soldier; he was a leader who understood the importance of building a strong, self-sufficient community.

Let's not forget Standish's role in the infamous "Standish Affair." When a group of settlers led by Thomas Morton set up a rival colony at Merrymount, complete with Maypole dancing and all sorts of debauchery, Standish was the one who put an end to it. He led a raid on the colony, arrested Morton, and dismantled the Maypole. Some might see this as an overreach of authority, but Standish was simply maintaining order and ensuring that the Pilgrims' values were upheld. He wasn't about to let a bunch of rowdy settlers undermine the hard work and discipline that had kept Plymouth Colony afloat.

In the end, Myles Standish was a man who got things done. He wasn't interested in political correctness or appeasing everyone around him. He was focused on one thing: the survival and success of Plymouth Colony. His legacy is a testament to the power of strong leadership and decisive action. Standish's story is a reminder that sometimes, you need a little grit and determination to make it in this world. So, the next time you hear someone whining about the harshness of history, just remember Myles Standish—the original American badass who didn't let anything stand in his way.