Massachusetts Bay Colony and New England: Social-Cultural Expansion and Conflict

Massachusetts Bay Colony and the Growth of New England

Introduction to the Quarter's Focus

• The quarter's academic weight is settling in with midterms and papers due.

• Today's lecture will focus on the Massachusetts Bay Colony and the growth of New England, an area previously less covered in the story of European colonization.

• This focus allows for an exploration of the socio-cultural aspects of colonial settlement.

• Plymouth Rock: The site of Plymouth Rock is mentioned as a historical landmark, though reputedly not visually exciting.

• Thanksgiving: The concept of Thanksgiving is introduced, noting its presence in Iroquois traditions (as per a previous reading) and acknowledging a different, more nuanced story when considering indigenous life under colonization.

Student Discussion: Founding of Colonial America

• A discussion question prompted students to share their initial thoughts on the founding of colonial America.

• Common Themes from Students:

  • Escaping persecution or an