Puritan Migration and the Mayflower Compact

In 1608, a group of Puritans, known as separatists, left England for Holland to escape religious persecution. However, they faced economic and cultural challenges there. In 1620, they decided to move to America, securing permission from the Virginia Company. They traveled on the Mayflower, aiming for Virginia but landing in Massachusetts. Without legal rights to the land, they drafted the Mayflower Compact to establish self-governance. Despite harsh conditions, the colony survived, laying the foundation for future governance.

Why did the Puritans, known as separatists, leave England in 1608?

• To explore new lands

• To join the Dutch craft guilds

• To escape religious persecution

• To find better economic opportunities

What was the main reason the Puritans were dissatisfied with Holland?

• The Dutch economy was too competitive

• The Dutch were not pure and godly enough

• They were not allowed to practice their religion

• The climate was too harsh

In 1620, what was the Puritans' primary goal in moving to America?

• To find gold and riches

• To establish a community of holy and righteous Puritans

• To escape the harsh Dutch winters

• To join the Virginia Company

What was the intended destination of the Mayflower?

• Virginia

• New York

• Massachusetts

• Cape Cod

What challenge did the settlers face upon arriving in Massachusetts?

• Hostile relations with the Dutch

• Lack of food and resources

• Severe weather conditions

• No legal right to the land

Why did the settlers on the Mayflower create the Mayflower Compact?

• To outline their religious beliefs

• To declare independence from England

• To create a legal basis for their government

• To establish trade agreements with the Dutch

What was the main principle of the Mayflower Compact?

• Majority rule

• Religious freedom

• Economic prosperity

• Military alliance

How did the settlers govern themselves after creating the Mayflower Compact?

• Through a council of elders

• By regular town meetings

• Under the leadership of the Virginia Company

• By following the laws of England

What was the significance of the Mayflower Compact in American history?

• It was the first constitution of the United States

• It established the first legal code in America

• It was an early foundation for self-government

• It was a trade agreement with Native Americans

What was the outcome of the first winter for the settlers?

• They moved to another location

• They all survived and thrived

• They returned to England

• Half of them perished