Puritans

Definition

Puritans were a group of English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who sought to 'purify' the Church of England from practices they considered too similar to Roman Catholicism. They played a significant role in the early colonization of America, particularly in New England, where their religious beliefs influenced various aspects of society and governance, including efforts to convert Indigenous peoples to Christianity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Puritans believed in strict moral codes and valued hard work, discipline, and community cohesion, which shaped their settlements in America.
2. They established the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1630, which became a model for Puritan society and governance based on their religious beliefs.
3. Puritans were deeply invested in education, founding some of the first schools and colleges in America, including Harvard University in 1636.
4. Their desire to convert Native Americans led to various missionary efforts, although these often resulted in cultural clashes and conflicts over land.
5. The Puritan work ethic contributed significantly to American culture, emphasizing individual responsibility and the belief that success is a reflection of one's moral standing.

Review Questions

• How did Puritan beliefs shape the social and political structures of their communities?
  • Puritan beliefs significantly influenced both the social norms and political structures within their communities. Their emphasis on a covenant with God created a strong sense of moral obligation among members, leading to strict adherence to community rules and collective decision-making. This was reflected in their governance, as they often established laws rooted in their religious principles, which promoted a society centered around communal values and discipline.
• Discuss the impact of the Puritan migration on Indigenous populations in New England.
  • The Puritan migration had profound effects on Indigenous populations in New England. As Puritans established settlements, they brought with them their religious views and goals of conversion. However, this led to significant cultural disruptions for Native Americans as their lands were taken for farming and settlement. While some Puritans aimed to evangelize Indigenous peoples, many encounters resulted in conflict and resistance from Native communities defending their way of life against encroachment.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of Puritanism on American identity and values.
  • The long-term consequences of Puritanism on American identity and values are extensive. The Puritan work ethic instilled a sense of responsibility and ambition that has become a hallmark of American culture. Furthermore, their emphasis on education laid the groundwork for future American educational institutions. Their belief in self-governance and community participation influenced democratic principles, leaving an enduring legacy that can be seen in modern American society's emphasis on individual rights, moral accountability, and civic duty.

Related terms

Separatists: A faction within the Puritan movement that advocated for complete separation from the Church of England and formed their own independent congregations.

Congregationalism: A form of church governance practiced by Puritans, where each congregation governs itself independently, allowing for local control over worship and decision-making.

The Great Migration: The period during the 1630s when a large number of Puritans migrated from England to the New World, seeking religious freedom and opportunities for a new life.