Why did the Pilgrims come to America?

The Pilgrims came to America primarily for religious freedom. They were a group of Separatists who sought to break away from the Church of England and practice their faith without persecution. In the early 17th century, they faced significant challenges and oppression in England for their beliefs. This desire for a place where they could freely worship led them to seek out a new land where they could establish a community based on their religious values.

While trade opportunities and land ownership were factors that attracted many to America during that period, they were not the primary motivation for the Pilgrims. Their primary focus was on establishing a society that aligned with their religious convictions. Therefore, the journey they undertook aboard the Mayflower was driven largely by their quest for a haven free from religious persecution.