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Today in History: Myles Standish elected first commander of Plymouth militia

2/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 17, 1621, Myles Standish was elected as the first commander of the Plymouth Colony militia in present-day Massachusetts. A key figure in the colony's defense and administration since its founding in 1620, Standish played a vital role in the early governance of this first permanent English settlement in New England.

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Story summary

On February 17, 1621, Myles Standish was elected as the first commander of the Plymouth Colony militia in present-day Massachusetts. A key figure in the colony's defense and administration since its founding in 1620, Standish played a vital role in the early governance of this first permanent English settlement in New England.