This phrase functions as a search query, likely used to find the answer to a crossword clue in the Wall Street Journal. It specifies a historical figure, the English colonist Rolfe, through his relationship with the Native American princess Pocahontas. This type of clue relies on general knowledge of history and popular culture. An example of a similar clue might be “Shakespeare’s melancholy Dane” with the answer being “Hamlet.”
Such clues offer a concise and engaging way to test knowledge and encourage deeper thinking about historical figures and events. They go beyond simple name recall and require solvers to connect individuals to their historical context. Understanding the relationship between Rolfe and Pocahontas, including the complex colonial era backdrop of their marriage, provides a richer understanding of this period in American history. Furthermore, the presence of such a clue in a major publication like the Wall Street Journal reflects the ongoing public interest in these historical figures.