Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War

William Bradford was the governor of Plymouth colony and oversaw the settlement’s growth. Trace Bradford’s life from his childhood in England to his arrival in the New World.

Bradford and Massasoit were able to create peace between their people, despite the growing tides of war and dissatisfaction in New England. How did the Pokanokets and the Pilgrims meet, and how did they create and maintain a working relationship? Give examples from the book.

Describe the battle known as The Great Swamp Fight. Who were the opposing sides? What were the events that led to the “battle” and what were the consequences of it?

What caused the Pilgrims to leave England for the New World? How was their attitude to the New World and their religious practice affected by the execution of King Charles?  

Compare several of the “original” settlers, such as William Bradford, Miles Standish and Edward Winslow. How were these men similar in their beliefs and actions? How were they different? What courses did each man take in the New World?

List and describe several of the most important Native American tribes in the narrative. How did these tribes interact with the Pilgrims? How were they similar, and in what ways were they different?

Detail the course of King Philip’s War, citing examples from the narrative. Why is King Philip’s War so often omitted from the history of the Pilgrims and their legacy in America? Why does Philbrick focus on this particular conflict and what does he conclude about its significance?

Compare Plymouth to Wessagussett. How were the two settlements similar? How were they different? What was the fate of each place? Give examples.