Religious Freedom: The primary motivation for the Puritans to establish the New England colonies was to escape religious persecution in England. They sought a place where they could freely practice their religious beliefs without interference from the established church.
Biblical Commonwealth: The Puritans believed in establishing a "Biblical Commonwealth," a society governed according to the principles of the Bible. They aimed to create a model Christian community based on the teachings and laws of the Old and New Testaments.
Puritan Theology: Puritan theology emphasized the sovereignty of God, the depravity of humankind, and the need for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. These beliefs shaped the social, political, and cultural fabric of the New England colonies.
Church-State Relationship: In the New England colonies, church and state were closely intertwined. Church membership was often a requirement for holding public office, and the government actively enforced religious laws and customs.
Religious Homogeneity: The New England colonies were initially quite homogenous in terms of religion. The Puritans believed in a unified religious community and discouraged dissent or the practice of other religions.
Missionary Work: The Puritans also had a missionary zeal to convert Native Americans and spread Christianity among the indigenous population of the region. They established missions and schools to teach Native Americans the Christian faith and European ways of life.
Social Impact: Religion influenced various aspects of daily life in the New England colonies. It shaped their education system, laws, moral codes, and social customs. Religious teachings and values were woven into the fabric of society.
Education and Literacy: The Puritans placed great importance on education and literacy, as they believed that individuals should be able to read and understand the Bible. This emphasis led to the establishment of schools and a high literacy rate in the New England colonies.
Overall, religion was a driving force behind the founding of the New England colonies. The Puritans' desire to practice their faith freely, establish a society based on their religious principles, and spread Christianity shaped the character, values, and institutions of these early American settlements.