Endecott, John (1588?-1665), also spelled Endicott, an American colonial official, led about 50 people from England to what is now the city of Salem, Massachusetts, in 1628. He governed the colony until John Winthrop arrived in 1630. Endecott remained a leader in Salem, while Winthrop established Boston. See Winthrop, John.
Endecott served as governor of Massachusetts Bay Colony for several terms. His zeal often led him astray. Endecott was largely responsible for causing the Pequot War (see Indian wars (The Pequot War (1637))). He slashed the red cross out of the British flag because he thought it was a symbol of the pope. Endecott persecuted the Quakers. But he used the colony’s ministers to bring harmony to the community. Endecott was born in Devonshire, England. He died on March 15, 1665.
