Question

Which of the following best explains why the "mayflower compact" was written?

1) To establish a system of self-government for the Plymouth Colony
2) To declare independence from England
3) To establish a trade agreement with Native American tribes
4) To establish a religious colony for Puritans

Answer 1

The Mayflower Compact was created to establish self-governance for the Plymouth Colony as the Pilgrims lacked an official governing charter upon arrival.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Mayflower Compact was written to establish a system of self-government for the Plymouth Colony. When the Pilgrims arrived at Plymouth, they found themselves outside the jurisdiction of their charter from the Virginia Company and thus without an official document to govern them. Hence, they created the Mayflower Compact, which served as an agreement that they would rule themselves by social contract, binding them together in a common purpose. This not only reflected their desire for self-governance but also embodied the democratic spirit of cooperation and the importance of a collective will.