Life of New England Puritans

What were the main values of New England towns?

Formation of communities centered around houses, commons, and central pastures, with outlying fields for agriculture.

What was the government structure in New England towns?

Minimal government interference; yearly town meetings where selectmen governed until the next meeting, with only adult males participating.

Who had the most influence in New England town governance?

Members of the church, particularly those who demonstrated evidence of grace as 'visible saints' from conversion.

What was the Halfway Covenant?

A provision allowing adults who had not converted to be baptized for political rights, thus expanding church membership.

What is primogeniture?

An English law where the oldest son inherits all family land and property, leading many Puritans to leave England.

How did New England Puritans address the issue of primogeniture?

They rejected the custom and divided land more equally among children, allocating land based on family size and community needs.