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Description
The most important and influential source of information about the Pilgrims and Plymouth Colony, this landmark account was written between 1630 and 1647. It vividly documents the Pilgrims' adventures: their first stop in Holland, the harrowing transatlantic crossing aboard the Mayflower, the first harsh winter in the new colony, and the help from friendly Native Americans that saved their lives. No one was better equipped to report on the affairs of the Plymouth community than William Bradford. Revered for his patience, wisdom, and courage, Bradford was elected to the office of governor in 1621, and he continued to serve in that position for more than three decades. His memoirs of the colony remained virtually unknown until the nineteenth century. Lost during the American Revolution, they were discovered years later in London and published after a protracted legal battle. The current edition rendered into modern English and with an introduction by Harold Paget, remains among the most readable books from seventeenth-century America.… (more)
User reviews
Those with only cursory knowledge of the Mayflower and its passengers may be surprised to learn there is a far greater story to be told
Because of its age, and perhaps the author's style, this is not an easy read. Nonetheless, it is an invaluable work of early English settlement in America and should not missed.
This story is one that should be SO exciting and, man, can he put you to sleep. I was very disappointed. Nonetheless, it packs the history into its pages.
Difficult book to read with broken English but enjoyed the story of how the group formed and headed to the Danes then off to US.
Another really good section was after landing who they came into contact with. Very political and religious back stories.
Lots of
Passenger list on the Mayflower is included along with family tree listings.
Footnotes are listed at the very end of the book. What appears to be treaties between the Pilgrims and Indians are also included.
Appendixes and index are also included.
Other works associated with this one are also available.