chapter two

chapter two

Chapter Two
Following the discovery and basic exploration of the Americas, settling this New World then became the priority. The people of England had the most powerful motivations for being the ones to venture to the New World and attempt to establish permanent settlements. The motives of the colonists for coming to America included various different things, be it simple curiosity, search for land, power, fortune, or freedoms.
Initially England’s attempts at colonization were only met by failure, for example the mysterious Roanoke Island colony-- one which seemingly disappeared. However following the defeat of the Spanish Armanda, the English hopes at successful colonization were restored due to a new mindset under a strong, unified state lead by a powerful monarch, new found basic religious unity, and a strong sense of nationalism which lead to a Golden Age in literature fueling the English peoples thirst for adventure, intensifying their confidence, patriotism, faith, and most importantly: their curiosity of the New World.
Additionally, following a dramatic population increase caused by farmers coming to England due to an economic depression, the English people feared they were experiencing a “surplus population” and many felt settling in America would be a solution to this problem. Furthermore, it was established by the laws of primogeniture that in order to inherit the land of your father, you must be the oldest son. This cause those who happened to be the younger sons of a family to explore alternate options. Many turned to America. Further people looking to America were the Separatists, those who practiced the beliefs of Puritanism, but were not happy with the way they were being forced to un their homeland. In the same way, Catholics who were looking to practice their religious beliefs without persecution also sought refuge in America. Adventurers interested in coming to America pooled the cost of traveling to the New World via the joint stock...