Pocahontas and
the Virginia Indians
an on-line, self-study history and cultural education course
Individual Participants in the Matoaka Covenant are offered ongoing access to an information and inspiration benefit called Pocahontas and the Virginia Indians. This on-line history and cultural education course offers an in-depth look at the life, legend and legacy of the woman most famously known as Pocahontas. Since the history and culture of the Virginia Indians are intertwined with any investigation wrapped around Pocahontas, an important course objective is to expand awareness of the Virginia Indian Tribes, with special attention to the tribes associated with Paramount Chief Powhatan. The course content is appropriate for ages 12 and up.
​
The Pocahontas Project has curated a diverse collection of information sources representing a highly credible collection of state, federal and international history and cultural institutions. The course also offers lots of fun intersections with people and places around the world connected to Pocahontas, gathered in 2020. Organized in 10 classes, the total content presents a variety of perspectives and is designed to give Participants a fuller understanding and appreciation for the namesake of this Covenant – Matoaka.
Course Objectives
This self-study course is designed to inform and inspire and has the following educational and social development objectives:
-
Offer a well-rounded presentation of the life, legend and legacy of Pocahontas, a person who through her hope and purposeful action literally changed the future course of world history. The course emphasizes the legacy of Pocahontas’ selfless life example in an effort to inspire Participants to follow in her footsteps.
-
Offer a well-rounded summary of the history of Indians in Virginia, from thousands of years before the time of Powhatan and Pocahontas, through to present day.
-
Promote the importance of the many leadership qualities exhibited by Pocahontas in the face of adversity, including:
-
Hope, Purpose, Critical Thinking, Civic Involvement, Shared Responsibility, and Perseverance
-
-
Promote the positive power of Cross-Cultural Understanding, a characteristic exemplified by Pocahontas.
-
Create a common intellectual and spiritual foundation for Participants and partners of the Matoaka Covenant.