1. The Mayflower Compact

2. The Pilgrims
Knowing life without laws could prove catastrophic, colonist leaders created the Mayflower Compact

3. The Pilgrims
Since the Mayflower had landed outside of Virginia Company territory, they felt they were no longer bound to the company’s charter.

4. The Pilgrims
They set out to create a temporary set of laws for ruling themselves as per majority agreement.

5. Writer of Mayflower Compact
Pastor William Brewster

6. Mayflower Compact
It created laws for the Mayflower Pilgrims and non-Pilgrims.

7. The 4 main points
the colonists would remain loyal subjects to King James, despite their need for self-governance
the colonists would live in accordance with the Christian faith

8. The 4 main points
the colonists would create one society and work together to further it
the colonists would create and enact “laws, ordinances, acts, constitutions and offices…” for the good of the colony, and abide by those laws

9. Why Was the Mayflower Compact Important?
It was the first document to establish self-government in the New World.

10. Why Was the Mayflower Compact Important?
It was a successful attempt at democracy and played a role in future colonists seeking permanent independence from British rule.

11. Resource