“A Description of New England” Reading Questions, page 12-17
1. What did John Smith say was the main purpose of his mission?
2. How did Smith describe the geographical orientation of New England?
3. How would you describe its geographical location?
4. Why did Smith think his plots of the coast were a waste?
5. What seven qualities did Smith list as necessary for truly exploring and knowing a
new land? Why do you think these qualities are necessary?
6. What did Smith think of Columbus, Cortez, Magellan and other explorers that
came before him?
7. How was the land they explored divided?
8. What observations did Smith make about the landscape?
9. What was the main commodity of New England? How was it used, other than for
consumption?
10. How did Smith describe the government of New England?