The Mayflower Compact
D2.Civ.5.3-5
Read the source and answer the questions, then circle the right answers.
The Mayflower Compact
An extract from the Mayflower Compact, signed by 41 men aboard the Mayflower off Cape Cod in November 1620 (spelling modernized). …do by these presents solemnly and mutually in the presence of God and one of another, covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil body politic, for our better ordering and preservation and furtherance of the ends aforesaid; and by virtue hereof to enact, constitute and frame such just and equal laws, ordinances, acts, constitutions and offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the general good of the Colony, unto which we promise all due submission and obedience. Words to know (written for this worksheet): covenant: make a solemn promise. civil body politic: a group of people who govern themselves. meet: fitting or proper.
- 1. Why is the compact an early example of self-government?
- 2. For whose good would the laws be made?
- 3. How many people signed the compact, and who were they?
- 4. Who would make the colony's laws, according to the compact?
- A.The ship that carried the Pilgrims
- B.The first elected assembly in the English colonies
- C.A fort built to guard Jamestown
- A.1776
- B.1492
- C.1619
- A.They had landed outside the area their permission to settle covered
- B.They wanted to declare independence
- C.The king ordered them to write it
- A.Plymouth Colony
- B.Jamestown
- C.Georgia
LessonPrint · D2.Civ.5.3-5 · Set 6 · free to copy for classroom use