In his description of the New World, William Bradford, one of the early Pilgrim settlers and the governor of Plymouth Colony, provides a detailed account of the challenges, opportunities, and natural wonders encountered by the colonists. Here is a summary of Bradford's description:
Bradford begins by describing the voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, highlighting the treacherous conditions and storms they faced during the journey. He emphasizes the sense of awe and gratitude the Pilgrims felt when they finally spotted land after months at sea.
Upon their arrival, Bradford paints a picture of the New World as a vast and untamed wilderness. He describes the landscape as "a hideous and desolate wilderness," with dense forests, rugged terrains, and unfamiliar flora and fauna. The colonists faced the daunting task of building a settlement and carving out a livable space amidst the harsh environment.
Despite the challenges, Bradford also notes the bountiful resources and opportunities the New World offered. He mentions the abundance of fish in the surrounding waters, including cod, bass, and herring, which provided a crucial source of sustenance for the colonists. The land was rich and fertile, suitable for cultivation, and the Pilgrims found various wild fruits and berries.
Bradford highlights the encounters with the native inhabitants, whom they referred to as the Native Americans or "savages." He acknowledges the initial tension and mistrust between the Pilgrims and the indigenous people but also expresses gratitude for the eventual peaceful alliances and cooperation that developed between them.
In his account, Bradford also emphasizes the Pilgrims' religious motivations and their belief in divine providence. He attributes their survival and success in the New World to God's guidance and protection, as they sought to establish a society based on their religious principles and values.
Overall, Bradford's description of the New World portrays a challenging yet promising land, where the Pilgrims faced hardships, navigated unfamiliar landscapes, encountered indigenous peoples, and relied on their faith and determination to establish their new settlement.
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