Puritan

Definition

Puritans were a group of English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who sought to 'purify' the Church of England from its Catholic practices. They believed in strict religious discipline, moral rectitude, and an emphasis on personal piety, which influenced their educational and social systems. This desire for a society based on their religious principles led to the establishment of colonial colleges that aimed to educate future leaders and ministers who would uphold Puritan values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Puritans migrated to America in the early 17th century seeking religious freedom, establishing communities based on their beliefs.
2. Harvard College was founded in 1636 as the first institution of higher education in the American colonies, primarily to train ministers in Puritan theology.
3. Puritan education was focused on moral instruction and literacy, ensuring that individuals could read the Bible and participate in religious life.
4. Puritan beliefs influenced the development of a communal educational framework that valued education as essential for a righteous society.
5. The legacy of the Puritans can still be seen today in American cultural values such as work ethic, self-discipline, and a focus on community responsibility.

Review Questions

• How did Puritan beliefs influence the establishment and curriculum of colonial colleges?
  • Puritan beliefs significantly shaped the establishment and curriculum of colonial colleges, as these institutions were founded primarily to prepare ministers who would promote and uphold Puritan values. The curriculum emphasized reading the Bible, theology, and moral philosophy, reflecting their commitment to creating a morally upright society. This focus on education ensured that future leaders were not only literate but also deeply grounded in Puritan religious principles.
• Discuss the role of Harvard College within the Puritan community and its impact on higher education in colonial America.
  • Harvard College played a pivotal role within the Puritan community by serving as a training ground for ministers and leaders who would disseminate Puritan teachings. Established in 1636, it became a model for other colonial colleges and set the standard for higher education in America. Its emphasis on theological study and moral instruction reflected the Puritans' commitment to fostering an educated populace that aligned with their values, thereby influencing the future direction of American education.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Puritan educational ideals on American society and how they shaped contemporary views on education.
  • The long-term effects of Puritan educational ideals have been profound in shaping American society. Their emphasis on literacy, moral instruction, and community responsibility laid the foundation for public education systems that value individual learning and civic duty. Furthermore, contemporary views on education continue to reflect Puritan values such as discipline, hard work, and a focus on ethical behavior. These enduring principles can be observed in modern educational philosophies that prioritize character development alongside academic achievement.

Related terms

Separatists: A faction of Puritans who sought to separate entirely from the Church of England, believing it was beyond reform.

Congregationalism: A form of church governance adopted by Puritans, where each congregation is independent and self-governing.

Blue Laws: Laws designed to enforce religious standards and morality, reflecting the Puritan emphasis on a pious lifestyle.