The Mayflower's Return Voyage to England
April 5th, 1621
April 5th, 1621

How Long Ago?
403 years, 11 months, 10 days ago
Location
Plymouth, Massachusetts, USA
Category
Exploration & Discovery
People
- William Bradford
- Edward Winslow
- William Brewster
Links & References
Tags
The Mayflower's Return Voyage to England
The Mayflower departed Plymouth, Massachusetts, for England after a successful journey that carried the Pilgrims to the New World. The ship, having spent several months in the Plymouth Colony, was now returning with a small number of passengers, including some of the remaining Pilgrims who were eager to return home as well as a cargo of goods. The voyage marked a significant moment in the early history of the colonies, emphasizing the ongoing connections between England and the New World.
Marked the Mayflower's return to England.
Carried remaining Pilgrims eager to go home.
Exported goods from the Plymouth Colony.
Signified ongoing ties to England.
What Happened?
The Mayflower, a historic ship, set sail from Plymouth, Massachusetts on a return trip to England. This voyage was particularly notable as it came months after the ship had brought a group of Pilgrims to the New World, where they established the Plymouth Colony. The Pilgrims sought to create a community that aligned with their religious beliefs, free from the constraints of the Church of England. Their successful establishment in the harsh conditions of early America led them to decide to send a ship back laden with the goods they had gathered. On board, a small group of Pilgrims chose to return to England, while others stayed behind, determined to build their lives in this new land. The Mayflower's return was not just about the journey home; it symbolized the enduring relationship between the settlers and their homeland, alongside the legacy that this initial journey would leave on both sides of the Atlantic. The ship would carry valuable information about the colony back to English merchants and families, offering insight into the challenges and successes the Pilgrims faced.
Why Does it Matter?
The return journey of the Mayflower holds significant historical interest as it reflects the complexities of early colonial life and the dynamics of transatlantic relationships. It underscored the continuous two-way exchange of people and goods that characterized the early years of European colonization in North America.
Discover More Historic Events from April 5th
Massive ICE Raid Targets Tennessee Slaughterhouse
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents conducted a significant raid on a slaughterhouse in Tennessee, detaining nearly 100 undocumented Hispanic workers. This operation was one of the largest workplace raids in U.S. history and reflected the ongoing focus on immigration enforcement under the administration's policies. Workers were apprehended during their shifts, stirring anxiety within the immigrant community, as agents sought to enforce immigration laws vigorously.
Continue ReadingDeadly Suicide Bombings in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
On a tragic day in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, two coordinated militant suicide bombings resulted in up to 50 fatalities and over 100 injuries. The first attack struck an Awami National Party rally in Timergara, where the crowd had gathered to support their political agenda. The second bombing targeted the U.S. Consulate in Peshawar, escalating tensions in an already volatile region. These attacks highlight the ongoing conflict involving militant groups in Pakistan, illustrating the threats posed to both local political entities and foreign diplomatic missions.
Continue ReadingUpper Big Branch Mine Explosion Claims Lives
An explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine trapped and killed twenty-nine coal miners in West Virginia. Rescue efforts began immediately, but the severity of the explosion complicated the situation, delaying rescue efforts. Investigations revealed that the blast was due primarily to methane gas ignitions and poor safety practices, contributing to widespread scrutiny of mine safety regulations.
Continue ReadingSpace Shuttle Discovery's STS-131 Mission Launch
Space Shuttle Discovery was launched on STS-131, marking its 33rd mission to the International Space Station. Liftoff occurred at 6:21 AM EDT from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This mission aimed to deliver vital supplies and equipment to support ongoing research aboard the ISS. The crew consisted of seven astronauts who played key roles in the mission's success, including the delivery of the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module, Leonardo.
Continue ReadingNorth Korea Launches Kwangmyŏngsŏng-2 Satellite
North Korea successfully launched its Kwangmyŏngsŏng-2 satellite, which passed over mainland Japan. The launch prompted swift condemnation from the United Nations Security Council and participating states of the Six-party talks. This controversial act was seen as a test of long-range missile technology which raised concerns regarding North Korea's intentions and regional security.
Continue ReadingMS Sea Diamond Strikes Volcanic Reef and Sinks
The cruise ship MS Sea Diamond struck a volcanic reef near Nea Kameni, Greece, and sank the following day. Despite swift rescue operations, two passengers were never found and are presumed dead. The incident raised questions about maritime safety and the ship's navigational practices.
Continue Reading