Captain Myles Standish was a military leader and an important figure in the early history of the Plymouth Colony in present-day Massachusetts. He was born in England around 1584 and became a key member of the Pilgrims, a group of English settlers seeking religious freedom. Standish served as the colony's military captain and played a crucial role in defending the settlers against potential threats. Standish is best known for his leadership during the Mayflower voyage and the establishment of the colony in 1620. He helped negotiate with local Native American tribes and was involved in various military expeditions. His contributions to the survival and governance of the colony have made him a notable figure in American history.