William Bradford was a prominent figure in American colonial history, best known for his role as the governor of Plymouth Colony and his firsthand account of the Mayflower voyage and the early years of the Plymouth settlement. Born in 1590 in Austerfield, Yorkshire, England, Bradford became a member of the Separatist congregation in Scrooby, Nottinghamshire, which sought religious freedom from the Church of England.

In 1620, Bradford set sail aboard the Mayflower with other Separatists and Puritans in search of religious freedom in the New World. Despite facing numerous hardships, including harsh weather, disease, and starvation, Bradford emerged as a key leader within the Plymouth Colony. He was elected governor of the colony multiple times between 1621 and 1656, demonstrating his strong leadership and diplomatic skills in navigating relations with Native American tribes and neighboring colonies.

Bradford’s most enduring legacy is his historical account, “Of Plymouth Plantation,” which he began writing in 1630 and continued until 1650. This firsthand narrative provides valuable insights into the early years of the Plymouth Colony, detailing the struggles, triumphs, and interactions with Native Americans that shaped the foundation of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Bradford’s work remains an invaluable primary source for historians studying the early colonization of America and the experiences of the Pilgrims.

To know more about William Bradford, let’s take a look at these 10 interesting facts about William Bradford.

1. Pilgrim Leader: William Bradford was a key leader among the Pilgrims who arrived aboard the Mayflower in 1620. He served as governor of Plymouth Colony for much of its early history, demonstrating strong leadership and resilience in the face of adversity.
2. Religious Persecution: Bradford was part of a group of English Separatists who fled religious persecution in England. They sought to practice their faith freely and establish a community based on their religious beliefs.
3. Mayflower Compact: Bradford played a significant role in drafting the Mayflower Compact, a foundational document that established a form of self-government for the Plymouth Colony. It was signed by the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower before they disembarked in the New World.
4. First Thanksgiving: Bradford is often associated with the first Thanksgiving celebration held in Plymouth Colony in 1621. While the details of the event are somewhat unclear, it is believed to have been a harvest festival shared between the Pilgrims and Native Americans.
5. Historical Account: Bradford wrote a detailed historical account of the Pilgrims’ journey and the early years of Plymouth Colony. His manuscript, known as “Of Plymouth Plantation,” provides invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by the early settlers.
6. Exploration of Cape Cod: Bradford was among the Pilgrims who explored Cape Cod before deciding to establish Plymouth Colony. Their exploration helped them select a suitable location for settlement.
7. Diplomatic Skills: Bradford demonstrated diplomatic skills in his interactions with Native American tribes, including the Wampanoag. He established alliances and treaties that helped ensure the survival of Plymouth Colony.
8. Education: Despite lacking formal education, Bradford was well-read and self-educated. He had a keen interest in history, theology, and political philosophy, which is evident in his writings.
9. Legacy: Bradford’s contributions to early American history and his leadership of Plymouth Colony have earned him a prominent place in American folklore and historical memory.
10. Death and Burial: William Bradford died in 1657 in Plymouth Colony. He was buried in the town of Plymouth, and his legacy continues to be commemorated in various ways, including through historical reenactments and educational programs.

William Bradford stands as a towering figure in the annals of American history, revered for his leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to religious freedom. As a key leader among the Pilgrims who sought refuge from religious persecution, Bradford played a pivotal role in the establishment of Plymouth Colony and the shaping of its early history. His steadfast determination, diplomatic skills, and dedication to the principles of self-government laid the foundation for the enduring legacy of Plymouth Colony and the ideals of democracy in America.

Through his meticulous historical account, “Of Plymouth Plantation,” Bradford has provided future generations with invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of the early settlers, ensuring that their stories are preserved for posterity. William Bradford’s legacy continues to inspire and resonate, serving as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring quest for freedom and justice.