Plymouth Colony Establishment

Definition

The Plymouth Colony was established in 1620 by a group of English Pilgrims seeking religious freedom. This settlement, located in present-day Massachusetts, became one of the earliest successful colonies in North America and played a pivotal role in the early history of the United States. The Pilgrims' journey on the Mayflower and their subsequent establishment of a self-governing community set a precedent for future colonies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Pilgrims, originally known as Separatists, left England seeking religious freedom and initially settled in Holland before deciding to establish a new colony in America.
2. The Mayflower arrived at Cape Cod in November 1620, and after a difficult first winter, only half of the original settlers survived.
3. The relationship between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Tribe was initially cooperative, leading to the first Thanksgiving in 1621 as a celebration of their successful harvest.
4. Plymouth Colony established a government based on majority rule, which was significant in developing democratic principles in America.
5. The colony ultimately merged with the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1691, but its legacy continued to influence American culture and values.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of Plymouth Colony influence the development of self-governance in early America?
  • The establishment of Plymouth Colony was pivotal for self-governance in early America as it introduced concepts such as majority rule through documents like the Mayflower Compact. The Pilgrims created a community that valued collective decision-making, setting an important example for future settlements. This approach laid the groundwork for democratic governance in later American colonies.
• What role did interactions with Native American tribes, particularly the Wampanoag, play in the survival and success of Plymouth Colony?
  • Interactions with the Wampanoag Tribe were crucial for the survival and success of Plymouth Colony. The Wampanoag shared essential knowledge about local agriculture and resources, which helped the Pilgrims adapt to their new environment. The collaboration between the two groups initially fostered a spirit of cooperation, exemplified by the celebration of the first Thanksgiving, which marked a significant moment of unity between them.
• Evaluate how the Plymouth Colony's founding principles and practices contributed to the broader narrative of American identity and values.
  • The founding principles and practices of Plymouth Colony contributed significantly to the broader narrative of American identity and values by emphasizing religious freedom, self-governance, and community cooperation. The Pilgrims' quest for liberty and their establishment of a government that respected individual rights resonated deeply within American culture. These ideals influenced later movements for independence and civil rights, shaping what it means to be American by highlighting resilience, communal support, and an enduring pursuit of freedom.

Related terms

Mayflower Compact: A foundational document signed by the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower, establishing a rudimentary form of self-government for the Plymouth Colony.

Puritans: A group of English Protestants who sought to purify the Church of England and played a significant role in the early colonization of New England, including Plymouth Colony.

Wampanoag Tribe: A Native American tribe that inhabited the region around Plymouth and interacted with the Pilgrims, playing a crucial role in their survival during the early years of the colony.