Aboard the Mayflower, 102 passengers set sail from Plymouth, England, on a momentous journey towards the New World. This group, mainly composed of Separatists seeking religious freedom, aimed to settle in the Virginia Colony, although the journey would eventually lead them to the shores of what is now Massachusetts. The Pilgrims were motivated by a desire for a community that would allow them to practice their faith without oppression, a wish that was driving an increasing number of people in Europe during this era. The Mayflower, a merchant ship originally meant for trade, provided a precarious living space for these early settlers. As they braved the Atlantic Ocean, they were met with tumultuous seas and treacherous weather, which tested their resolve and endurance.Upon arrival, the Pilgrims found themselves further north than anticipated, which led them to establish Plymouth Colony instead of their intended destination. This unexpected detour marked the beginning of a new chapter in the settling of North America, as the Pilgrims negotiated with indigenous tribes and attempted to cultivate their new land. The struggle for survival in these uncharted territories brought about incredible challenges including food shortages, harsh winters, and the need to establish governance. Despite their hardships, the Pilgrims forged alliances and laid the foundation for a society based on self-governance and community values, which would have lasting ramifications for the future of America. The Mayflower Compact, a governing document created by the Pilgrims, established principles that would influence democratic governance in the years to come.