What is one reason colonists came to America?

Many colonists came to America primarily to escape religious persecution. During the 16th and 17th centuries, various groups faced significant discrimination and hostility in Europe due to their beliefs. For example, the Puritans sought a place where they could practice their faith freely without the constraints imposed by the Church of England. This desire for religious freedom was a powerful motivating factor that drove many settlers to journey across the Atlantic to establish colonies where they could worship without fear of persecution.

While the pursuit of gold and riches, the establishment of trade routes, and political interests were also factors in colonization, the desire for religious freedom specifically emphasizes the experiences and struggles of specific religious groups during that era. The emphasis on escaping persecution highlights the importance of the quest for a safe and tolerant place for various religious practices, which became foundational to the character and development of early American society.