The Puritan Awakening (1621-1649) began with the English Parliament's Great Protestation. Upon the accession of James's son, the reformist urge turned radical and gained popular momentum. Seeking religious exile, John Winthrop led a saving remnant of true believers to America. In England, this Puritan enthusiasm led to the Long Parliament in 1640, civil war, and the execution of Charles I of England in 1649. In the new wilderness colonies, the experimental fervor receded, leaving isolated settlements seeking an enforceable moral orthodoxy.
Age Location in History:
- The Elizabethan Generation was entering elderhood.
- The Parliamentarian Generation was entering midlife.
- The Puritan Generation was entering midlife.
- The Cavalier Generation was entering youth.
