Puritans
Who were the Puritans?
Religious dissidents who wanted to reform the Anglican Church
Why was the Mayflower Compact created?
To preserve unity after the difficult voyage
What natural resources helped Massachusetts's economy?
Lush forests and deepwater ports
What religious idea encouraged Puritans to work hard?
The Protestant work ethic
What is a theocracy?
A government in which religion is central
Why did Puritans believe the Anglican Church needed reform?
They thought it was not separated enough from Catholicism
What did the Mayflower Compact promise?
Just and equal laws for the common good
Name two important Massachusetts industries.
Fishing and shipbuilding
What kinds of skilled workers were found in New England?
Masons, artists, and shopkeepers
What did Puritans believe about hard work?
They believed God rewarded those who worked hard
Why did the English government view Puritans as troublemakers?
They challenged religious and political authority
Why is the Mayflower Compact important?
It was an early example of self-government in British North America
How was Massachusetts's economy different from Virginia's?
It was more diverse and commercial rather than mainly plantation agriculture
How did Massachusetts's economy affect society?
It created a broader middle class and a smaller wealth gap
Who could vote and hold office in early Massachusetts?
Male propertied church members
What was the main motivation for Massachusetts's settlement?
Religious freedom and community
What values did the Mayflower Compact emphasize?
Self-government and communal values
Why were deepwater ports important?
They supported trade and fishing
What did Puritans emphasize over individual ambition?
Communal interests
What happened to people who challenged Puritan religious authority?
Some were prosecuted, banished, or executed
How did Massachusetts Bay Company benefit from the Puritans?
It saw them as a cheap way to establish a colony while helping England remove religious dissidents
What problem did the Mayflower Compact help solve?
Disagreements and the need for an agreement to maintain order
How did Massachusetts initially handle property?
The community worked together to pay debts, but later white males were allowed individual property
How did Puritan society change over time?
It became more tolerant, eventually allowing non-Puritan worship and land ownership
What was the relationship between religion and government in Massachusetts?
They were closely connected, with Puritan religious leaders influencing government