The Story of the Pilgrims

Origins in England

• Began in rural Nottingham-Yorkshire, England.
• A congregation of the Church of England formed, believing the Church was corrupt.
• Known as Puritans, they wished to create a new, pure church.
• Viewed as a threat by the English government.

Escape to Holland

• In 1607, the Bishop of York cracked down on Puritan meetings.
• The congregation decided to flee to Holland for religious freedom.
• The journey was daunting due to limited travel knowledge and English restrictions.
• Settled in Leiden, Holland, but struggled to maintain English values amidst a different culture.
• Continued monitoring by the English government.

Decision to Move to North America

• Religious and political unrest in Europe made moving inland impossible.
• The Pilgrims looked to settle in North America.

The Voyage to North America

• 1620: Undertook a dangerous journey across the Atlantic.
• Required permission from the English crown and funding.
• Secured a patent in 1619 from the Virginia Company to maintain some English identity.

Preparations and Challenges

• Purchased the Speedwell in Holland and hired the Mayflower from England.
• Faced multiple setbacks due to Speedwell's repeated leaks.
• Final journey on the Mayflower began on September 6, 1620.

Journey Difficulties

• Cramped, cold, and wet conditions on the Mayflower.
• 65-day voyage with severe weather hardships.

Arrival and Settlement

• Landed on November 9, 1620, at Cape Cod, not Hudson River as intended.
• Formed the Mayflower Compact, establishing a covenant with God and a civil body politic.

Establishing the Colony

• Built homes and secured food/water before winter.
• Created defenses against potential American Indian attacks.
• Harsh winter resulted in numerous deaths; only 50 survived by spring.
• Demonstrated courage and laid the foundation for future settlers.