Bradford vs. Morton

In a paragraph of approximately 200 words, explain the major conflict between William Bradford and Thomas Morton. Why did Bradford want Morton arrested and deported? Why do we modern Americans have at least some sympathy for Morton?


Bradford came to America as a Separatist who settled at Plymouth. These people went to the new land looking to be free of judgment and persecution based on their beliefs. Bradford was a leader, elected to office after the original governor, John Carver died. Though he obviously had to be an intelligent man, his religion molded him into someone who had little tolerance for other religious view points. This is little surprise as his writing is scattered with Biblical verse. This is likely why he had difficulty and understanding Morton. Morton came to America with a group of other men looking for a new start and new funds. As the leader of his own men, Morton was scene is an offense just by how he existed when compared to the pious Pilgrims. He was terribly punished, sent back to England more than once, and then wrote a book about his experiences in America before returning there where he died. Obviously, even though this man had trouble with the likes of Bradford and others, he must have held some love for this new land with how he just kept returning and wouldn’t be displaced by his enemies. I find that admirable.