Mayflower Compact

Definition

The Mayflower Compact was a foundational document created in 1620 by the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower, establishing a form of self-governance for the new colony of Plymouth. It is significant as one of the first examples of social contract theory in America, emphasizing mutual consent and majority rule, and it reflects the broader themes of colonial society and the development of democratic principles during this period.

Historical Context

The Mayflower Compact emerged in 1620 when passengers of the Mayflower, English Puritans known as Pilgrims, reached North America and found themselves outside the jurisdiction of the Virginia Company. To establish a framework for governance in their new settlement at Plymouth, Massachusetts, they drafted and signed a compact that would create a self-governing colony based on majority rule.

Historical Significance

The Mayflower Compact is significant as an early form of social contract and a pioneering assertion of self-governance in the English colonies. It set a precedent for future colonial governance and democratic principles in North America. Its collaborative approach to law and order laid foundational concepts that would influence the development of American political institutions and democratic practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Mayflower Compact was signed by 41 male passengers on November 11, 1620, before disembarking at Plymouth Rock.
2. This document served as a framework for governance and set a precedent for future self-governing agreements in America.
3. The Mayflower Compact was not a constitution but rather an agreement to form a political body and submit to majority rule for the sake of order and survival.
4. Its principles influenced later democratic ideas in America, especially during the drafting of state constitutions and eventually the U.S. Constitution.
5. The Compact reflected the Pilgrims' desire for religious freedom while also acknowledging their need for cooperation among diverse settlers.

Review Questions

• How did the Mayflower Compact embody the idea of self-governance among the Pilgrims?
  • The Mayflower Compact embodied self-governance by establishing a government based on consent and majority rule among the settlers. By agreeing to create a political body that would work together for the common good, the Pilgrims demonstrated their commitment to collective decision-making and responsibility. This early form of democracy was significant because it showed that the settlers were willing to create their own laws and govern themselves rather than rely solely on external authority.
• In what ways did the Mayflower Compact influence future documents regarding governance in America?
  • The Mayflower Compact influenced future governance documents by introducing concepts such as social contract theory and self-rule. Its emphasis on mutual consent and majority decision-making served as a model for later agreements and constitutions. As colonies expanded, many adopted similar frameworks that highlighted the importance of collective governance and individual rights, ultimately contributing to the democratic foundations of the United States.
• Evaluate the significance of the Mayflower Compact in shaping American democratic principles and its legacy in contemporary governance.
  • The significance of the Mayflower Compact lies in its role as one of the first expressions of self-governance in America, setting a precedent for participatory democracy. It laid the groundwork for future democratic principles by showcasing how individuals could come together to create a government based on mutual agreement. The legacy of this compact can still be seen today in contemporary governance, where principles like consent of the governed, representation, and accountability remain central to American democracy.

Related terms

Social Contract:

A theory in political philosophy that suggests individuals consent to form a government for mutual protection and benefit, often used to justify political authority.

Plymouth Colony:

An early English colonial venture in North America, established by the Pilgrims in 1620, which became the site of the first Thanksgiving and a model for future colonies.

Democratic Principles: Fundamental ideas that promote democracy, including individual rights, equality, and the rule of law, which were key influences in shaping early American governance.