What motivated the migration of Puritans to New England in the 1630s?

The migration of Puritans to New England in the 1630s was primarily motivated by religious persecution in England and the search for religious freedom. During this period, Puritans faced significant challenges under the Anglican Church, including political oppression and social hostility. The Puritans sought to create a society where they could practice their faith without interference and establish a community based on their religious ideals. This desire for a "city upon a hill," a model Christian society, drove many to leave England and settle in New England, where they could govern themselves according to their beliefs.

While economic opportunities and land ownership were certainly factors in the broader context of colonization, the core motivation for the Puritans was their pursuit of a place where they could worship freely and live out their religious convictions. This distinguishes their migration from other movements that were more focused on economic gain or expansionist ambitions.