Consequently, weakness of any sort was dangerous for the survival of the whole group. Settlers of the Massachusetts Bay Colony were families searching for a permanent home; people who were dedicated to hard work and moral living and were totally committed to the creation of their divine city (Lerner Publishing, 2002). Even though a bit extreme, their strict rules were justified for Puritans needed to be disciplined in all aspects in order to survive in the wilderness. Therefore, it can be said that seventeenth century Puritans' ethic had both practical and religious value (Reef, 2013). .
Besides the self-discipline needed to meet the rigors of the new world, it is easy to see why theocracy was an appealing form of government for these settlers. British, Swedish, and Dutch immigrants all shared the same basic faith of Christianity. Furthermore, complete church membership was required for one to be allowed citizenship. In addition, only members of the church could vote, hold public office, and serve on juries. Thankfully, the arrival of various faiths such as Protestants, Jews, and Roman Catholics, who were fleeing from their own religious persecution or simply wanting a better life, confronted the balanced laws already established. Religious toleration became mandatory in order for the people to live peacefully and productively. Rhode Island even declared complete toleration of all religions on its charter of 1663. Not too long after that, in the 1680s, Pennsylvania joined them and everyone that was a peaceful worshiper of God was welcome to this new world. Obviously, ast he country grew and developed, the laws were adapted to fit the people's needs.
In the eighteenth century, James Madison and Thomas Jefferson worked together to try and weaken the Anglican church's establishment in Virginia; for both in Europe and North America, politicians understood that people should be free to worship anyway they chose and without fear of political pressure or oppression.
