The story of how private property may have saved the Pilgrims is rooted in their early experiences in the New World, particularly through their adaptation of economic principles to increase productivity and survival.
Historical Context
When the Pilgrims first settled in Plymouth in 1620, they initially organized their agricultural and economic activities based on a system of common property, as per the agreement with their financiers in England. This meant that all land, resources, and the fruits of labor were to be shared among the colony.
The Problem with Common Property
The common property system initially used by the Pilgrims led to lackluster results. Many historians argue that this approach demotivated individuals from working hard because the benefits of one's labor would be distributed among all, regardless of individual effort. This system was also compounded by a lack of private incentive, leading to reduced productivity and, consequently, severe food shortages.
Shift to Private Property
Under the leadership of Governor William Bradford, a significant change was implemented around 1623. Bradford decided to assign private plots of land to each family. This shift was intended to encourage personal investment in the crops and land, allowing individuals to keep the fruits of their labor. This change is recorded in Bradford’s diary, where he noted the positive impact of this new system.
Results of the Change
The introduction of private property had a dramatic effect. It incentivized the settlers to work harder and take better care of their parcels. Bradford noted that this change led to much more food being produced. The increase in productivity helped the colony survive the harsh conditions, ultimately leading to more prosperous harvests, which were essential for their survival and growth.
Conclusion and Legacy
This move towards private property is credited with helping the Plymouth colony to stabilize and eventually thrive. The success of this approach is often cited as one of the earliest examples of private property rights spurring economic development in what would become the United States, influencing future economic structures.
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