The Mayflower in Britain- how an Icon was Made in London

Previously, the voyage of the Mayflower has been seen as part of American history and part of America's struggle for democracy. Uniquely, this book looks at the story from the British point of view, and from the viewpoint of British democracy. The tale usually told is of a romantic departure from Plymouth, Devon, and a romantic arrival in Plymouth, Massachusetts. In fact, the voyage arose out of grim negotiations in London. It was financed and organised by Merchant Adventurers in the City of London and its religious element was supplied by an underground church in Southwark, London. It sailed to America probably from Blackwall, in what is now London, and the ship's crew lived in Rotherhithe. The voyage was a catalogue of mistakes, mishaps and misadventures. The ship did not intend to go to Plymouth, Devon, but was forced to call in there for repairs. In America they did not know where to land. Yet the Pilgrims took on board a precious cargo, a democratic spirit and tolerance they learnt in transit.