Who is John Sassamon from The Name of War: King Philip's War and the Origins of American Identity and what is their importance?

John Sassamon or Wassasausmon was born in the early 17th century near modern-day Canton, MA into a Praying Indian town. Sassamon's parents had converted to Christianity early in Philip's life. He was not raised by them, however, since his entire family died in a smallpox epidemic in 1633. He was likely adopted into an English family, learned English and converted to Christianity. He was mentored by the Christian missionary John Eliot and often functioned as an interpreter and translator between the Indians and the English. His ability to speak English allowed him to attend Harvard but after he graduated, he drifted back into Indian life and started to serve as the secretary for several Indian chiefs, and in particular King Philip, who was absolutely reliant upon him for his skills.