John Smith vs William Bradford
In “What Happened Till the First Supply” from The General History of Virginia John Smith is retelling his personal experience at Jamestown. William Bradford wrote about his colony’s journey from England and as they settle on Plymouth in Of Plymouth Plantation. As one reads, he or she will notice that John Smith often focuses on the good side of him and exaggerates the truth. Bradford is more honest in his writing, which makes it a factually accurate account. From reading John Smith’s and William Bradford’s historical accounts, a reader can see Smith was a less likable man because he thought too highly of himself, but poorly of his fellow settlers and the Native Americans. Smith praises himself while Bradford never mentions how great he was. Often Smith repeats the hardships he faced in Jamestown, but Bradford tells in general the problems for the entire Plymouth colony. Smith proudly listed every deed he performed including his “good words”, “fair promises”, and giving the settlers simple orders while he bears the greatest tasks.