1. Early American Writing

2. Key Historical Dates
1607- Jamestown settlement is founded in Jamestown, Virginia
1619- First enslaved Africans arrive in North America at Jamestown
1620- Mayflower pilgrims establish Massachusetts Bay Colony at Plymouth.
1624- John Smith publishes The General History of Virginia.
1630- William Bradford describes his journey across the Atlantic and pilgrims’ settlement in Of Plymouth Plantation.

3. Puritan Beliefs-religion was the primary influence on writers of the time period.
“City upon a hill” idea. Puritans believed that God had chosen them to create a new order in America, much like the Israelites were God’s chosen people in the Old Testament.
Sin- saw humans as basically sinful, but “the elect” would be spared eternal punishment
The Bible was seen as the ultimate authority for life and help for sinful man.
God’s providence (God provides what people need…everything is from Him.)
God’s sovereignty (God rules…He is in control)