Massachusetts Bay Colony
Swetha Bhumireddy
Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem.
A Brief History
The colony was located—as its name implies—in modern-day Massachusetts, but also in parts of modern-day Maine. This location allowed the colony to participate in some unique trades in its economic development. These included: whale hunting, fishing, rum, and ship building. Many of these are associated with the bay colony's location near the bay and the ocean allowing for such trades.
Massachusetts Bay Colony switched between different types of colonies. It had once been an independent colony. However, King James II revoked the charter that made the colony independent in 1686. Soon afterwards, the colonies throughout New England were combined into a single colony in order to increase trade between them and England. This thereby resulted in Massachusetts Bay Colony becoming a royal colony in 1691. The colony was also governed by a royal governor and a partially elected legislature.
The Colony's Location
The Colony's Economy
European Settlements
Important Events
In 1691 Massachusetts Bay became a royal colony. (See above.)
From 1692 to 1693 the Salem Witch Trials took place in Massachusetts Bay. This unfortunate event resulted in over 150 people being accused of witchcraft and around 20 being killed (either by hanging, drowning, or burning at the stake). Most of these people were women. While the cause of this hysteria is unknown, many point fingers at a rye mold known as ergot being a likely cause for the "symptoms" displayed by the "witches" of the colony. Another likely theory is the extreme religious faith of the people of Salem causing many to believe that those who were different (or were women) had some association with the Devil and witchcraft. Some famous "witches" were Ruth Buck of Westborough and Tituba of Salem. (Click the buttons at the bottom of the flyer if your interested to know more about the Salem Witch Trials.)
Wicthed Being Hanged
Modern Day Salem
Salem Witch Trails Memorial
Do Come And Visit!
Hope to see you around the Bay Colony soon! :)