If Plymouth survived within a network of Wampanoag diplomacy and knowledge, then the colony’s later expansion onto Native land becomes harder to separate from the help it initially received.

The relationship becomes reciprocal and political rather than charitable.

That is historically closer to what the sources show.

Tisquantum’s importance does not shrink in this version.

It becomes more specific.

He was the person whose rare experience made communication possible at a critical moment.

He could explain English intentions to Native leaders and Native knowledge to English settlers.

He could pilot journeys and help negotiate trade.

He made himself valuable enough that Plymouth protected him even when Ousamequin wanted him punished.

That is already an extraordinary historical role.