Which group was primarily responsible for the Pilgrims’ settlement of Plymouth Colony?

The Pilgrims who settled Plymouth Colony in 1620 were primarily members of a group known as Separatist Puritans. These individuals sought to break away from the Church of England, as they believed it was too corrupt and retained too many elements of Catholicism. Their desire for religious freedom and a more purified form of worship led them to embark on a journey to the New World in search of a place where they could practice their faith without persecution.

The Separatist Puritans, often referred to simply as Pilgrims, established Plymouth Colony after landing at Cape Cod, where they signed the Mayflower Compact to create a government based on majority rule. This founding document underscored their commitment to self-governance and community, which was reflective of their values as they sought to build a society that aligned with their religious beliefs.

In contrast, the other groups listed, such as Quakers, Spanish Catholics, and Anglican Reformers, were not involved in the establishment of Plymouth Colony. Quakers appeared later in colonial history and had different theological views, while Spanish Catholics were primarily focused on missions in the southwestern parts of North America. Anglican Reformers were associated with the Church of England, from which the Pilgrims had detached themselves