Calling Adams an ordinary sailor overlooks his training as a shipwright and his experience as a master navigator. His dry-dock and shipbuilding work required skills beyond that description. The term 'teacher' is also interpreted as an expression of respect for useful knowledge. On this reading, it need not establish a narrow role teaching mathematics or imply that Ieyasu learned everything from him. Adams offered information about the wider world alongside access to ships, cannon and industrial capability. Understanding those practical contributions gives a fuller account of his standing.
Notable Point · 1:47:47-1:49:36
What 'sailor' and 'teacher' obscure about Adams
Adams's technical training and the meaning of respectful titles complicate simplified accounts of his position.