The Mayflower: Tales of Jumping Ship and the Journey That Changed History
The Mayflower, a name forever etched in the annals of history, is one of the most iconic ships of the early 17th century. It carried the Pilgrims, a group of religious separatists seeking freedom from persecution, across the Atlantic Ocean to the New World in 1620. While the voyage is often romanticized as a monumental step toward establishing American colonies, the untold tales—particularly those involving dissent, desertion, and tales of “jumping ship”—add a complex layer to the narrative.
In this article, we’ll delve into the Mayflower’s legendary voyage, its passengers' struggles, and the fascinating, often overlooked stories of those who metaphorically or literally "jumped ship."
The Mayflower: A Brief Overview
1. The Ship and Its Purpose
The Mayflower was a merchant v...