Questions tagged [puritanism]

A branch of Reformed Protestantism of the 16th and 17th centuries, originating in England

The Puritans were a group of English Reformed Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries. They sought to purify the Church of England of Roman Catholic influences, but were opposed and persecuted. Some of their congregations emigrated, particularly to New England, where they had great influence.

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Is the popular image of the Puritan as purveyor of an intolerant monoculture accurate?

Recently I listened to the introduction of Russell Shorto's The Island at the Center of the World: The Epic Story of Dutch Manhattan and the Forgotten Colony That Shaped America. When he talks about the New England colonies, he uses language such…
Jon Ericson
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