Chesapeake vs New England
New England and Virginia were both settled by people of English decent. Both areas were settled at around the same period of time. However, the two developed into very different societies. The main explanation for this is the bases upon which each area was founded. The Puritans were a hard working, god-fearing people. After many years of religious prosecution in their homeland of England they sought out refuge in the neighboring country of Holland. After living in Amsterdam for a year, the group moved to the town of Leyden. For the next twelve years the Puritans built the reputation of being honest and hard working. However, life was very hard in Holland. Many families did not have enough money to make ends meet. The group resolved that they would lead a better life in America. The trip to America was a hard one, however, it brought the group closer together. On November 11, 1620 the Puritans anchored in Cape Cod Harbor.
We must delight in each other, make others' conditions are own. The Virginia Company, which funded the early settlements of Virginia, emphasized "quick economic prosperity" in the promotional literature that they handed out throughout England. This caused them to only look out for themselves; the hardships of others had no effect on them. They were too busy worrying about their own financial gain. Because many families had an extraordinary amount of children (Document B), it was important for them to set up a good foundation of togetherness in which the children could grow up. Although both New England and Virginia later went on to become prosperous areas of America, the reasons that the societies within each colony were so different are obvious. Virginian colonies were constantly in danger of attack by Native Americans and other invaders on their territory. This was needed in the initial building of houses, churches, and other structures that were crucial to their survival. However, the people who started the colonies of Virginia did not have the same outlook on life. They would lie and steal to make a dollar. Excuses such as these were sent to the king of England when the military of Virginia was defeated in battle.
Common topics in this essay:
England Virginia,
Virginia Company,
Harbor Puritans,
Native Americans,
england virginia,
|