Mayflower arrives at Plymouth Harbor | December 18, 1620 | HISTORY

Also Within this year in history

In a year marked by exploration, colonization, religious conflict and scientific progress, the Pilgrims made their first landfall in North America, arriving in what is now Massachusetts aboard their ship, the Mayflower. In Europe, the Thirty Years’ War, a conflict largely between Catholic and Protestant rulers, entered a third year, on its way to becoming one of the longest and bloodiest conflicts in history. And on a happier note, an English traveler visiting Turkey recorded seeing the earliest known children’s merry-go-round.

Sep

Colonial America

Mayflower departs England

On September 16, 1620, the Mayflower sails from Plymouth, England, bound for the Americas with 102 passengers. The ship was headed for Virginia, where the colonists—half religious dissenters and half entrepreneurs—had been authorized to settle by the British crown. However, stormy weather and navigational errors forced the Mayflower off course, and on November 21 the “Pilgrims” reached Massachusetts, where they founded the first permanent European settlement in New England in late December.

Getty Images / Barney Burstein / Corbis / VCG

Dec

Exploration

Mayflower arrives at Plymouth Harbor

On December 18, 1620, with the English ship Mayflower anchored in Plymouth Harbor, Massachusetts, a small party of sailors from the vessel go ashore, as its passengers prepare to begin their new settlement, Plymouth Colony.

The Mayflower in Plymouth Harbor, Massachusetts, 1620. Painting by by William Halsall, 1882. (Photo by Barney Burstein/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images)

Corbis/VCG via Getty Images

Dec

Colonial America

Construction of Plymouth settlement begins

One week after the Mayflower is anchored at Plymouth harbor in present-day Massachusetts, construction of the first permanent European settlement in New England begins.

Sign Up for "This Day in History"

Uncover fascinating moments from the past every day! Learn something new with key events in history, from the American Revolution to pop culture, crime and more.

By submitting your information, you agree to receive emails from HISTORY and A+E Global Media. You can opt out at any time. You must be 16 years or older and a resident of the United States.

More details: Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Contact Us

U.S. History

World History

Eras & Ages

Culture & Tradition

Science & Innovation