Lakhasly

New England's political organization laid the groundwork for American democracy, but some aspects diverged. Puritans believed political authority rested with the community, who chose leaders. However, voting was limited to church members, and religious freedom was absent. New England town organization reflected Puritan principles. Roger Williams, a dissenting Puritan, advocated for separation of church and state, leading to the founding of Rhode Island. While Puritan influence weakened before 1700, their impact on American life remains significant.

The way in which New England society was organised politically provided some  of the roots from which later American democracy grew, but some aspects of the  Puritans political tradition were later abandoned. a. The Puritans believed that the source of political authority lay in the  members of the community: It was they who selected the leaders. b. Voting privileges were limited to church members; and freedom of  religion was not tolerated. 5. The way in which New England towns were organised reflects well Puritan- Principles and ideals. 6. Roger Williams is an example of an early New Englander who advocated  principles opposed to the main body of Puritans. He was forced to leave Massachusetts,  and founded a colony where church and state are strictly separated: Rhode Island. 7. The original firm grip of Puritan Principles upon New England weakened in the  decades leading up to 1700: but the Puritans have exercised an important influence on  American life.