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History of Massachusetts

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The history of Massachusetts pre-dates the times of English settlers in North America; however, its distinct importance in American history begins with Colonial Massachusetts. It was the most important northern colony, and uncountable American institutions, legislation, and traditions have been established there. The Pilgrims first settled there in Plymouth Colony, while the Puritans settled Salem and Boston.

As time passed and the people of the Massachusetts Bay Colony (formerly the Puritans) began to become known as Yankees, the church that they had begun continued to control the little towns that Massachusetts was built around. However, toward the end of the colonial period, other churches began to emerge - Baptist, Anglican, Unitarian, and more.

During the 1670's Massachusetts won several battles with Indian tribes in King Philip's War and later fought in the French and Indian War, with Britain as its ally. As the American Revolution began to approach, Massachusetts was a headquarters for freedom events and acted as a catalyst for the war with its Boston Tea Party. Other infamous battles taking place in Massachusetts during the Revolution included the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the Siege of Boston, and the Battle of Bunker Hill. After the War for Independence, John Hancock, whose signature on the Declaration is so famous, became the first governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Massachusetts has always seemed to be in the forefront of new legislation and movements, as well as in limelight for scandal. In 1788 Massachusetts was the 6th state to accept and ratify the US Constitution, and they were the first state to abolish slavery. During the Civil War, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry was one of the initial African-American divisions to fight for the military of the United States. In 2002 Massachusetts became infamous for its Roman Catholic priests having sexually molested children and then covering up the abuse with the help of the diocese. Later in the 2000s, Massachusetts became the first (and currently the only) state to legalize same-sex marriage. In general, it is known as a place of sanctuary for those with liberal worldviews and progressive ideas.

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