In 1608, Pocahontas saved the life of an English colonist, Captain John Smith. Pocahontas's rescue of Smith made her famous not only in colonial America, but across the ocean in England as well. Afterwards, she made enormous contributions to the survival of Jamestown by bringing the colonists food and by promoting peace between the Powhatans and the English. Though she was born an Indian princess, she later adopted many English customs. Pocahontas grew up as the favorite daughter of the Native American chief of the Powhatans. Pocahontas lived a relatively short life, but she made an impact on colonial American history that is still felt today. Did you know that Pocahontas was really named Matoaka. She taught John Smith how to speak Algonkian. She was also kidnapped and held hostage on an English ship. She had a son named Thomas and received the English name Rebecca.