William Bradford war ein englischer Anführer der Siedler der Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts. Er zeichnete sich als Erzähler mit einem einzigartigen Stil aus, der das Leben und die Kämpfe der Siedler in der Neuen Welt schilderte. Sein Werk beleuchtet die frühe Periode der amerikanischen Kolonialgeschichte und bietet tiefe Einblicke in die Motivationen und das tägliche Leben derer, die eine neue Gesellschaft formten.
The narrative offers a firsthand glimpse into the daily experiences of the Pilgrims as documented by Governor William Bradford and fellow members of the Mayflower crew. It captures their challenges, triumphs, and interactions in the New World, providing an intimate portrayal of their journey and the establishment of a new life. This historical account highlights the resilience and determination of the early settlers as they navigated the complexities of their new environment.
The narrative revolves around an ancient manuscript discovered in a grocer's shop, with the narrator expressing regret over a missing page. The writer intends to share this manuscript, believing it could benefit the Society mentioned in a recent advertisement. The tone reflects a sense of duty and a desire to preserve history, indicating the manuscript's potential significance. The correspondence highlights themes of preservation, community service, and the importance of historical artifacts.
The most important and influential source of information about the Pilgrims and Plymouth Colony, this landmark account was written between 1630 and 1647. It vividly documents the Pilgrims' adventures: their first stop in Holland, the harrowing transatlantic crossing aboard the Mayflower, the first harsh winter in the new colony, and the help from friendly Native Americans that saved their lives. No one was better equipped to report on the affairs of the Plymouth community than William Bradford. Revered for his patience, wisdom, and courage, Bradford was elected to the office of governor in 1621, and he continued to serve in that position for more than three decades. His memoirs of the colony remained virtually unknown until the nineteenth century. Lost during the American Revolution, they were discovered years later in London and published after a protracted legal battle. The current edition rendered into modern English and with an introduction by Harold Paget, remains among the most readable books from seventeenth-century America.