Early Life

Manteo was a Native American from the Croatan tribe, part of the Algonquian-speaking peoples who lived along the coast of what is now North Carolina. His exact birth date is unknown, but historians believe he was born around the mid-1500s. Manteo grew up during a time when European explorers were beginning to make contact with Native peoples along the Atlantic coast.

First Encounters with the English

In the 1580s, English explorers, led by Sir Walter Raleigh, arrived on Roanoke Island to establish a colony. Manteo became a key figure because he was friendly toward the English and willing to help them. He acted as a guide, translator, and ambassador between the English settlers and the Native tribes. His cooperation helped build early trust between the two cultures.

Voyage to England

In 1584 or 1585, Manteo traveled to England with the explorers. This was an incredible journey for a Native American at the time. In England, Manteo met Queen Elizabeth I and saw a completely different way of life. His visit made him even more valuable to the English because he understood both cultures. He returned to America with the settlers in hopes of making the new colony successful.

Role in the Lost Colony

Manteo played a major role during the Roanoke voyages. He tried to keep peace between the settlers and local tribes, though conflicts still happened. In 1587, as a sign of trust, the English baptized Manteo as a Christian and gave him the title “Lord of Roanoke.” This made him one of the first Native Americans to be baptized by Europeans.

Legacy

Manteo’s exact fate after the disappearance of the Roanoke Colony (known as the “Lost Colony”) is unknown. However, his efforts to build peace and understanding between two very different cultures are remembered as an important part of early American history. Today, the town of Manteo, North Carolina, is named in his honor.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think Manteo agreed to help the English settlers?
2. How did Manteo’s trip to England influence his role with the colonists?
3. What challenges do you think Manteo faced trying to keep peace between the English and Native tribes?
4. Why do you think the English baptized Manteo and gave him a title?

Glossary

• Algonquian: A group of Native American tribes who spoke similar languages.
• Roanoke Colony: The first English attempt to build a settlement in North America.
• Ambassador: A person who represents and communicates between two groups.
• Baptized: A Christian religious ceremony marking entry into the faith.
• Voyage: A long journey, usually by sea.

Five Interesting Facts

• Manteo was one of the first Native Americans to travel to England.
• He was given the English title “Lord of Roanoke.”
• Manteo helped John White and other English leaders communicate with local tribes.
• He witnessed both English and Native cultures, a rare experience in his time.
• A town in North Carolina is named after him today.

Timeline of Manteo’s Life

• Mid-1500s – Manteo is born into the Croatan tribe.
• 1584 – Makes contact with English explorers at Roanoke.
• 1584–1585 – Travels to England and meets Queen Elizabeth I.
• 1587 – Baptized and given the title “Lord of Roanoke.”
• After 1587 – Disappears from historical records after the Lost Colony vanishes.