Essay Compare And Contrast William Bradford And John Smith

Giving Honor where Honor is due: Comparing Smith and Bradford John Smith and William Bradford were two great leaders in the colonization of Virginia. They both give accounts of their journey and life in the new world. When comparing the two, John Smith accredits himself for the progression of Jamestown where William Bradford accredits God for the progression of Plymouth. William Bradford comes from a heavy religious background. Bradford was deeply rooted in the puritan cause. He defined himself as “a person for study as well as action; and hence notwithstanding the difficulties which he passed in his youth.”(121-122) Also he stated “The crown of all his life was his holy, prayful, watchful and fruitful walk with God, wherein he was exemplary.” (122) Bradford did not believe in reforming the Church of England from within and there for moved and lived in the Netherlands for 12 years. Then decided to take the journey to Virginia. He believed the colony of Plymouth would be a special providence. His journey was to have religious freedom and live in a place they way God intended. John Smith on the other hand comes from a military background in
The Mayflower Compact was the document that united the pilgrims and the preservation of the colony. The Compact states, “In the name of God Amen. We whose names are underwritten the loyal subjects of our dread sovereign Lord, King James, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland king, defender of the faith, ect., having undertaken, for the glory of God and advancement of the Christian faith, and honor of our king and country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virginia, 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.” (138-139)God is involved in every aspect of the