Question

Describe the influence of Puritanism in New England society in the 1600’s.

Answer 1

Puritanism influenced New England mostly socially and politically, although there were some economic effects of puritanism including a low spending on things deemed a luxury, but these effects were quite small compared to others. Politically, Puritanism influenced an entire generation of theocracy in the New England area, with elected officials of towns--if any--not having nearly as much power as the church. Also, Puritanism led to a broad movement of conversion through the use of fear tactics as seen by many preachers who placed focus on the anger of God with humanity. Socially, these preachers converted whole villages to Puritanism by making them fear God, and thus follow His example through hard work on the field. The Salem Witch Trials are another example of the social effects of Puritanism. Many innocent people were hung by the theocratic way of government seen in New England, as well as social pressures from the highly fearful public. Here's a more organized explanation.

Social:

Use of fear tactics for conversion.

• Angry God.
• Work hard and you may go to heaven. (no one knows if they're going to heaven or not, even if they work hard and are upstanding citizens)

Suppress Earthly desire (leechery, alcoholism, ill-intent)

• Salem Witch Trials can be seen as an effect of this.

Hate for Catholicism

• Catholics committed genocide on any Puritans, causing a massive immigration to America.

Political:

Theocratic government.

• Church at the top. Few actual leaders other than church.

Economic:

No consumerism

• Puritans felt no need for "fun," and placed focus on work, and if not that, reading the Bible and going to church.

Focus on agriculture.

• Not entirely a cause, but somewhat.