Another Name For Pilgrims That Starts With An S

Ever heard of the Pilgrims? Of course you have! Thanksgiving wouldn't be the same without imagining them feasting with the Wampanoag. But did you know they had another name, a slightly less common but equally descriptive one starting with the letter "S"?

I'm talking about the Separatists! Sounds a bit dramatic, right? Like a group of superheroes with a serious disagreement with the main team.

Why Separatists?

Well, these weren't superheroes arguing over who gets to drive the Batmobile. The Pilgrims, or Separatists, were a group of English Protestants who weren't thrilled with the Church of England.

They felt the Church was still too closely tied to the Catholic Church and wasn't pure enough. So, they decided to do something radical: separate entirely! Hence, the name Separatists.

Imagine telling your family you're not just disagreeing with their dinner choices, but you're starting your own dinner party, in a different house, with completely different rules. That's the level of commitment we're talking about.

Not Just a Name, a Lifestyle

Being a Separatist wasn't just about attending different services. It was a whole lifestyle. They faced persecution in England for their beliefs, which made life difficult.

Think about being judged or even punished for your deepest convictions. It's not a pleasant picture, and it's part of what fueled their desire for a new home.

This persecution is largely why they ended up on the Mayflower, seeking religious freedom in the New World. Talk about a leap of faith!

From Scrooby to Plymouth: A Separatist Saga

Before they were famous Pilgrims sailing to Plymouth Rock, many of them lived in a small village called Scrooby in England. It was there that their Separatist movement really took root.

Led by figures like William Brewster and John Robinson, they secretly met and worshipped, defying the Church of England. This secret society of Separatists laid the foundation for their future voyage.

It's kind of like a historical spy movie, but instead of stealing secrets, they were just trying to pray in peace.

It's easy to forget the struggles these individuals endured. The journey was fraught with hardship, both before and after landing in America.

Even with the help of the Wampanoag, the first winter was brutal. Many Separatists, or Pilgrims, didn't survive.

So, Why Remember "Separatists"?

Next time you think of the Pilgrims, remember the name Separatists. It adds a layer of depth to their story.

It reminds us that they weren't just seeking adventure; they were driven by a deep desire for religious freedom and the courage to break away from the status quo.

It's a testament to their conviction and the lengths they were willing to go to for their beliefs. It also reminds us about religious tolerance today.

Think about it: Separatists. It's a name that packs a punch, just like the people it describes.