William Bradford says that the pilgrims thank God for their safe arrival in New England but lists all of the disadvantages of facing them what are the disadvantages
In his writings, William Bradford, one of the leaders of the Pilgrims, does highlight some of the disadvantages and challenges they faced upon arriving in New England. Some of these disadvantages include:
1. Harsh climate and unfamiliar environment: Bradford describes the cold and snowy New England winters as extremely harsh and challenging for the Pilgrims who were used to a milder climate in England. They had to adapt to new weather conditions and learn how to survive in an unfamiliar environment.
2. Limited resources and lack of provisions: The Pilgrims faced food shortages and struggled to find enough provisions to sustain themselves. They had to ration their supplies and endured hunger and malnutrition during their early years in Plymouth.
3. Disease and illness: Bradford writes about how many Pilgrims fell ill and died due to various diseases and illnesses, including scurvy and other contagious ailments. The lack of proper medical resources and sanitation added to their vulnerability.
4. Hostile Native American relations: The Pilgrims faced challenges in establishing peaceful relations with the Native American tribes in the area. They were initially met with suspicion and faced occasional conflicts, which added to their difficulties in establishing a secure presence in New England.
5. Isolation and lack of support: Being in a new and remote land meant that the Pilgrims were isolated from their homeland and lacked immediate support from their fellow countrymen. This isolation made it difficult for them to receive aid, reinforcements, or provisions from England.
Despite these disadvantages, the Pilgrims persevered and expressed gratitude to God for their safe arrival, viewing their challenges as tests of their faith and devotion to their religious beliefs. They believed that their hardships were part of God's plan and saw their survival as a sign of divine providence.