Final answer:
Early English colonists faced typical hardships such as difficult voyages and conflicts, but religion significantly influenced the establishment and life of the colonies. Religious freedom was a primary motivation for many settlers, shaping the laws and social norms of early American society.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hardships faced by early English colonists were indeed typical, as they struggled with the challenges of establishing a new society in a foreign land. The difficult voyages, harsh climates, and conflicts with Indigenous peoples were common experiences. However, it's also imperative to acknowledge that the motivations behind colonization were not solely about overcoming hardships; they included religious intentions as well.
Religion played a pivotal role in the establishment and everyday life of the English colonies. For instance, Puritans sought to create a community that reflected their religious ideals in New England, while other regions like Pennsylvania were founded as a haven for religious groups facing persecution, such as the Quakers. Moreover, the Southern colonies also saw an influx of different nonconforming Protestant sects and even Jewish settlers seeking religious freedom. These religious values influenced colonial laws, social norms, and interactions with both native populations and other colonial powers.
In summary, religious freedom and the opportunity to practice beliefs were significant drivers of English colonization, shaping the development of early American society and its cultural landscape.