Great migration

Definition

The great migration refers to a significant movement of Puritans from England to New England, particularly to the Massachusetts Bay Colony, during the 1630s. This migration was driven by a desire for religious freedom, economic opportunity, and the hope of establishing a model Christian society in the New World.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The great migration saw approximately 20,000 Puritans migrate to New England, establishing a robust community with a focus on religious conformity and governance based on their beliefs.
2. The majority of migrants were families, which helped create stable communities that were conducive to agricultural and economic development.
3. Unlike previous migrations, which had primarily involved individuals seeking adventure or wealth, this migration was heavily influenced by the Puritans' desire for a society that aligned with their religious convictions.
4. The migration significantly shaped the social, political, and religious landscape of early colonial America, leading to the establishment of a Puritan-dominated culture in New England.
5. The great migration was a response to the changing political climate in England, particularly the rise of King Charles I and his attempts to enforce strict conformity to the Church of England.

Review Questions

• How did the motivations behind the great migration differ from earlier migrations to America?
  • The motivations behind the great migration were primarily centered on the Puritans' quest for religious freedom and the establishment of a society based on their values, differing significantly from earlier migrations that were often driven by individual pursuits of wealth or adventure. This collective aim for religious conformity created tightly-knit communities that were focused on building a model Christian society rather than merely exploiting resources or land. The emphasis on family groups also contributed to a more stable and enduring settlement pattern.
• Analyze how the great migration influenced the political and social structures within the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
  • The great migration profoundly impacted both the political and social structures within the Massachusetts Bay Colony. With a large influx of Puritan settlers, governance was heavily influenced by their religious beliefs, leading to a theocratic system where church leaders held significant power. Socially, this created an environment where community standards and norms were dictated by Puritan values, emphasizing education, hard work, and moral living, which became cornerstones of colonial life.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the great migration on American society and its legacy today.
  • The long-term effects of the great migration have left an indelible mark on American society, influencing everything from religious practices to cultural norms. The establishment of Puritan ideals has had lasting implications for American identity, including concepts like community responsibility and moral leadership. This legacy can be seen in contemporary discussions around religious freedom and governance, as well as in ongoing debates about moral and ethical standards in American life, showcasing how this early migration continues to shape American values today.

Related terms

Puritans:

A religious group that sought to purify the Church of England from Catholic practices and played a key role in the settlement of New England.

Massachusetts Bay Colony:

A major English settlement founded in 1630 that became a central hub for Puritan migration and a model for other colonies.

King Charles I: The English monarch whose policies and persecution of Puritans led to increased emigration to America during the great migration.