The Mayflower and the Pilgrims — Reading Comprehension

The Mayflower was a small ship that carried a group of people called the Pilgrims from England to America in 1620. The Pilgrims wanted to find a place where they could have freedom to practice their religion. Their journey was very hard. Strong storms tossed the Mayflower in the ocean. Many people became sick, and the trip took over two months.

When the Mayflower landed, it was not where they planned. Instead of Virginia, they arrived in what is now called Massachusetts. The Pilgrims wrote an agreement called the Mayflower Compact. They promised to work together and make fair laws. One Pilgrim wrote, "We do covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil Body Politick." This helped them live in peace and order.

Life was difficult in the new land. The first winter was very cold. Many Pilgrims did not have enough food or warm homes. Sadly, about half of the people did not survive that winter. But the Pilgrims did not give up. In the spring, the Wampanoag people helped the Pilgrims. They taught them how to plant corn and find fish. With this help, the Pilgrims were able to grow food and build stronger homes.

To celebrate their first good harvest, the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag shared a feast. This feast is remembered as the first Thanksgiving. It was a time of hope and friendship.

Interesting Fact: The Mayflower carried 102 passengers, but only one baby was born during the journey!

What was the name of the Pilgrims' ship?

Where did the Mayflower land?

Who helped the Pilgrims grow food?

Why did the Pilgrims leave England?

What was the Mayflower Compact?

What happened after the first harvest?

Only one baby was born on the Mayflower. True or false?

What does 'harvest' mean?