DIFFERENCES IN THE SOCIETIES essays

DIFFERENCES IN THE SOCIETIES essays The New England and Chesapeake regions of the United States had evolved into two very distinct societies. However, the settlers all came from common English origins. There are several reasons for this clear difference. Beginning with the settlement of the regions, the differences became apparent. Geography and priorities separated the societies, as well as those that populated them. To begin with, the groups left England for very different reasons. New England was largely settled by Puritans. They planned to create in America a society on a hill. A beacon of shining light to England. By stretching their covenant with England, they wished to make an example in America of the way England should be. As John Winthrop, the first governor of Massachusetts, wrote; We must consider that we shall be as a city upon a hill. The eyes of all people are upon us, so that if we shall deal falsely with God in this work we have undertaken...we shall be made a story and a by-word throughout the world (Document A). The New England Puritans wished not to start a whole new society as much as to create a utopian society for England to convert into. The Chesapeake area was settled for a much different reason. The settlers in the southern region of America wished to separate from England and begin a new society. Many of the settlers came because they believed that there were riches to be found in the area; namely gold. As Captain John Smith wrote in the History of Virginia, ...among us were the gold seekers who with their golden promises made all men their slaves in hope of recompenses. There was no talk...but dig gold, wash gold, refine gold, load gold. (Document F). The settlers in the south wished to farm and raise animals as well. In other words, while the settlers in New England were religious leaders who wished to gain political and religious freedom, the Chesapeak...