Puritan views

Definition

Puritan views were a set of religious beliefs and practices held by the Puritans, a group of English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who sought to 'purify' the Church of England from its Catholic practices. This movement emphasized strict moral standards, the importance of individual piety, and a direct relationship with God, which shaped the social, political, and cultural landscapes of early American society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Puritans believed in a 'city upon a hill,' a model society that would exemplify their religious ideals to the world.
2. They prioritized reading the Bible and personal interpretation of scripture, leading to high literacy rates in Puritan communities.
3. Puritan views included a strong emphasis on work ethic and moral living, contributing to what is often referred to as the 'Protestant work ethic.'
4. Their strict moral codes led to significant social pressures and led to events like the Salem witch trials, which reflected their fears of sin and moral decay.
5. Puritans played a crucial role in establishing early American democratic practices, particularly through town meetings and self-governance.

Review Questions

• How did Puritan views influence social norms and practices in early American society?
  • Puritan views had a profound impact on social norms in early American society, as they emphasized strict moral standards and community oversight. This led to a culture where individual behaviors were closely monitored by the community, resulting in high expectations for moral conduct. The Puritan emphasis on hard work and education also fostered a strong sense of civic duty, influencing not only religious practices but also shaping local governance.
• Discuss how Puritan beliefs about governance reflected their religious views and affected their political structures.
  • Puritans believed that governance should reflect their religious values, leading to the establishment of theocratic principles in their communities. Many Puritan settlements operated under systems where church leaders held significant political power, intertwining religious authority with civil governance. This blend fostered a unique political structure that valued community consensus and moral conformity, deeply rooted in their theological beliefs.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Puritan views on modern American culture and values.
  • The long-term effects of Puritan views can be seen in various aspects of modern American culture, including the emphasis on individualism, work ethic, and community responsibility. The belief in self-governance established by Puritans laid a foundation for democratic ideals prevalent today. Additionally, elements of their moral framework continue to influence contemporary discussions on social issues, showcasing how these early beliefs have persisted and evolved within American society over time.

Related terms

Calvinism: A branch of Protestant theology founded by John Calvin that influenced Puritan beliefs, emphasizing predestination and the sovereignty of God.

Congregationalism: A form of church governance where each congregation governs itself independently, which was adopted by many Puritan communities.

Theocracy: A system of government in which priests rule in the name of God; Puritan settlements often functioned under theocratic principles.