The Mayflower Compact

Although this language is too difficult for young students to understand, read at least parts of it aloud so they can hear the language. Talk about the formal language. Summarize the points and talk about the main idea. Why did they think it was important to make this statement?

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 Faith, etc.

Having undertaken for the Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith, and the Houour of our King and county, 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 Poltick, for our better Ordering and Preservation, and Futherance 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.

In Witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names at Cape Code, the eleventh of November, in Reign of our Sovereign Lord, King James of England, France and Ireland, the eighteenth and of Scotland the fifty fourth. Anno Domini, 1620