identity central issues explain why the pilgrims government came about and why it's existence was important

Answer 1

The Pilgrims' government, known as the Mayflower Compact, came about due to a number of central issues faced by the Pilgrims after their arrival in the New World. These central issues included:

1. Lack of authority: The Pilgrims were originally bound by the Virginia Company's charter, which granted them rights to establish a settlement in Virginia. However, due to a navigational error, they landed in what is now Massachusetts, outside the geographical jurisdiction of the Virginia Company. This presented a problem as they did not have any legal authority to establish a settlement in the region.

2. Concerns over law and order: With the lack of legal authority, there were concerns about maintaining law and order within the Pilgrims' community. They realized the importance of establishing rules and regulations to ensure fair governance and peaceful coexistence among the settlers.

3. Unity and stability: The Pilgrims came from different backgrounds and had varying motivations for embarking on the voyage. To ensure unity and stability within the community, it was necessary to establish a common set of rules and principles that everyone would agree to follow. This would help forge a sense of identity and shared purpose among the Pilgrims.

The existence of the Mayflower Compact was important for several reasons:

1. Legitimacy and self-governance: By drafting and signing the Mayflower Compact, the Pilgrims established a legal framework for their settlement, giving it a legitimate basis. This act of self-governance demonstrated their commitment to creating a system of laws and rules that would govern their community.

2. Social contract: The Mayflower Compact represented a social contract among the Pilgrims, where they agreed to abide by the laws and regulations for the betterment of the community. This collective agreement helped foster a sense of shared responsibility and collaboration, which contributed to the long-term success of the Plymouth Colony.

3. Precedent for American democracy: The Mayflower Compact is often considered an early example of self-government and a precursor to the principles of democracy that would later shape the United States. It demonstrated the Pilgrims' willingness to participate in the decision-making process and establish a system that valued the consent of the governed.

In summary, the Pilgrims' government came about due to the central issues they faced upon their arrival in the New World. The Mayflower Compact provided a legal basis for their settlement, established a system of self-governance, fostered unity and stability, and laid the groundwork for principles of democracy in the future.