This book presents an imaginative selection and thematic arrangement of Captain John Smith's most important writings. The goal is to make Smith accessible to scholars, students, and general readers alike. The editor's introductory material and notes clarify Smith's meaning and the context in which he wrote, while the selections are large enough to allow Captain Smith to speak for himself.

Includes index.

John Smith : life and legend -- Jamestown : John Smith as leader -- John Smith as ethnographer : his relations with the Indians -- John Smith as interpreter of the environment -- The future of colonization.