Of Plymouth Plantation (Complete Edition)

William Bradford's "Of Plymouth Plantation (Complete Edition)" is a significant work in American literature that provides a detailed account of the early history of the Plymouth Colony. Written in a straightforward and factual style, the book chronicles the arrival of the Pilgrims in the New World, their struggles to establish a new settlement, and their interactions with the Native Americans. Bradford's writing offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by the early settlers and their unwavering determination to build a community based on religious freedom and democratic principles. The author's firsthand experiences as a leader in the colony lend authenticity to his narrative, making it a compelling and informative read for those interested in early American history. Bradford's meticulous record-keeping and reflections on the events of his time contribute to the book's historical significance and its enduring legacy in shaping our understanding of the roots of American democracy. Readers will appreciate Bradford's detailed and insightful account of the Pilgrims' journey and the challenges they overcame to establish a successful colony in the New World.

William Bradford (1590-1657) was a notable English Puritan separatist who is most well-known as the Governor of the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts and as the author of 'Of Plymouth Plantation (Complete Edition)'. His work is an indispensable primary source for the understanding of the experiences of the Mayflower Pilgrims and the early years of America's settlement. A leader endowed with strong convictions and a sense of divine providence, Bradford helmed the Plymouth Colony for nearly three decades, guiding its settlers through the monumental challenges of establishing a new community in a foreign land. His narrative, 'Of Plymouth Plantation', chronicles the history of the colony from its inception in 1620 through its first 30 years, blending personal reflections with detailed accounts of communal trials and triumphs. The style of Bradford's writing reflects a fusion of plain Puritan prose with a rich admixture of biblical allusion and classical references, providing readers with insight into both the mind of Bradford and the ethos of the time. His book is not merely a historical record; it is also an illustration of the Puritan belief in a purposeful life lived under God's providential care. Bradford's extensive journal serves historians, scholars, and literary enthusiasts who seek to understand the early colonial period and the cultural landscape of the New England settlers.