The Mayflower Compact

Written in 1620 by the Mayflower passengers (who later were called Pilgrims), the Mayflower Compact was the first document of self-government in the colonies of the New World. Signed by all the adult male passengers of the Mayflower, it was based on the Covenant they lived by in Leyden, England before setting sail. It is hailed as the first democratic government created by voluntary agreement among men of equal rights. There was, of course, room for improvement. The Compact was signed by all the men on board - including the indentured servants - promising to abide by laws that would be drawn up and agreed upon by all male members of the community. The women were not allowed to participate in the governing process. However, according to the Mayflower Compact, a self-governing body rules for the greater good; and that principle of government has had great iimpact on the North American continent to this day.

 ...do

by this presence solemnly & mutually in the presence of God, and 

one of another, covenant, & combine our selves together into a 

civil body politick; for our better ordering, & preservation & 

furtherance of the ends aforesaid; and by virtue hereof, to enact, 

constitute, and frame such just & equal laws, ordinances, 

Acts, constitutions, & offices, from time to time, as shall be thought 

most meet & convenient for the general good of the colony:  unto 

which we promise all due submission and obedience. 

If you look at a transcription of the Mayflower Compact, without changes to spelling or punctuation, you can appreciate how much English has changed since 1620. In general, the MayflowerHistory site is an excellent place to learn more about the Mayflower settlers, their first Thanksgiving and what they found when they arrived in the New World.