Pilgrims Depart for New World Aboard Mayflower
September 16th, 1620
September 16th, 1620

How Long Ago?
404 years, 5 months, 27 days ago
Location
Plymouth, England
Category
Exploration & Discovery
People
- William Bradford
- Edward Winslow
- John Carver
- Miles Standish
Links & References
Tags
Pilgrims Depart for New World Aboard Mayflower
The Mayflower set sail from Plymouth, England, carrying a group of Pilgrims seeking religious freedom. These individuals, known as the Pilgrims, were a mix of Separatists, who sought to break away from the Church of England, and others looking for new opportunities. The voyage was intended to reach the Virginia Colony, but it would ultimately lead to the establishment of Plymouth Colony. Over the course of their journey, the Pilgrims faced challenges, including a cramped living space and illness among passengers, raising the stakes for their quest for a better life.
102 passengers made the historic voyage.
The Mayflower Compact established self-governance.
They initially aimed for the Virginia Colony.
Plymouth Colony was founded after weather delays.
What Happened?
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.
Why Does it Matter?
The journey of the Mayflower represents a pivotal moment in the establishment of America. The Pilgrims' quest for religious freedom and the establishment of Plymouth Colony laid the groundwork for future colonization efforts and the idea of America as a refuge for the oppressed. Their experiences in negotiating with indigenous peoples and creating a self-governing agreement serve as early templates for governance and civil rights in America, influencing the nation's foundational principles.
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