A clause is commonly defined as a group of words that, unlike phrases, includes a subject and a verb. These clauses can be classified into two categories: (a) independent clauses, which can express a complete thought and thus, can be complete within itself. And (b) A dependent clause, that usually supports part of a sentence, reason why it cannot be complete within itself.
Bearing in mind the explained above, it could be said that an independent clause<em> is a group of words that states the main thought of a sentence and is complete within itself.</em>
I would say that the answer would be that it is a written agreement composed by a consensus of the new Settlers arriving at New Plymouth in November of 1620. The compact held the first written laws for the new land, and determined authority within the settlement.
