Why Did the Puritans\' \"Errand into the Wilderness\" Become Permanent?
What factors contributed to the Puritans\' \"errand into the wilderness\" becoming permanent?
1. Religious Freedom
2. Escape from Persecution
3. Economic Opportunities
4. Social Experiment
5. Challenges of Returning
6. Generational Ties
Factors Contributing to the Permanent Settlement of the Puritans
The Puritans' migration to the New World became permanent due to a combination of factors that shaped their society and reinforced their commitment to staying.
The Puritans' "errand into the wilderness" became permanent for several reasons:
1. Religious Freedom: The Puritans sought to establish a society based on their strict religious beliefs, free from the influence of the Church of England. They believed that by creating a community in the New World, they could practice their faith without persecution.
2. Escape from Persecution: The Puritans faced persecution and discrimination in England, which further motivated them to seek a permanent settlement in the wilderness. They saw America as a place where they could freely express their religious beliefs and live according to their values.
3. Economic Opportunities: The New World offered the Puritans the chance to establish a self-sustaining and prosperous community. They hoped to build a society based on their ideals of hard work, frugality, and communal support, which they believed would lead to economic success.
4. Social Experiment: The Puritans saw their migration as a chance to create a model society that could inspire and guide others. They believed that by building a virtuous and pious community, they could influence the world and serve as an example for future generations.
5. Challenges of Returning: The difficulties and risks involved in returning to England discouraged many Puritans from going back. Over time, the increasing number of settlers, the establishment of towns, and the growth of their community made it less likely for the Puritans to abandon their permanent settlement.
6. Generational Ties: As time passed, the descendants of the original Puritans became increasingly rooted in the New World. They developed a strong sense of identity and attachment to their community, making it less likely for them to leave and reinforcing the permanence of the Puritan settlement.