Pilgrims, Puritans, and Separatists (Calvinist Settlers in Colonial New England)

Video

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We typically use three words to describe the settlers in Colonial New England: Pilgrims, Puritans, and Separatists. Since these settlers were all English Calvinists with similar religious beliefs, the differences can sometimes confuse US History students.

The Pilgrims were the settlers that founded the Plymouth Colony in 1620 after their voyage on the Mayflower. This is the only group of New England colonists who are referred to as Pilgrims, but anyone who makes a religious journey can be referred to as a pilgrim.

Puritans were English Calvinists who sought to reform, or purify, the Church of England. Separatists were English Calvinists who sought to separate from the Church of England, which they felt was beyond reform.

The Pilgrims were Separatists.

This video should be helpful to US History students, including those preparing for the AP US History exam.