The Pilgrim’s Experience
Puritans: - Were known as a sect ( religious group) - Wanted to reform, or purify, the Church of England
Puritans / Separatists Puritan beliefs: 1. Bishops and priests had too much power 2. Bible was most reliable source Separatists: Separated from and cut all ties with the Church of England.
The New World Immigrants – people who settle in new land Puritans leave England for the Netherlands Why did the Pilgrims leave the Netherlands? 1. Didn’t want children growing up Dutch 2. Not enough good jobs
Founding of Plymouth September 16, 1620 – Mayflower left England with 100 men, women and children William Bradford: Pilgrim leader Trip lasted: 2 months Pilgrims landed north of Virginia? Outside their charter. Needed to setup laws for Plymouth colony.
Beginning of Plymouth Mayflower Compact: Purpose: 41 men signed contract agreeing to fair laws and self- government. Purpose: Established guidelines for Plymouth members to follow (religious)
Pilgrims and American Indians Significance of September arrival? During winter 50% of the settlers died from starvation, illness, and exposure Samoset: 1st Indian to meet Pilgrims Provided information about tribes/places
Native Assistance Squanto taught the Pilgrims: Fertilize crops Relations with Indians How did the Pilgrims celebrate their 1st harvest? A feast with the Natives (1st Thanksgiving)
Other Settlement Issues Pilgrim problems? 1. Poor farming conditions Poor hunting/fishing conditions
Differences between Plymouth & Jamestown Families were more common in Plymouth. Family served as the center of what? Religious life, health care, & community well-being
Women’s rights in Plymouth? Could sign contracts 2. Widows could own property 3. Married/widows could run inns 4. Could bring cases before the court