What type of government did the Mayflower Compact aim to establish?

The Mayflower Compact aimed to establish a civil body politic, which refers to a governing framework that the settlers agreed upon for mutual benefit and order. This document was created by the Pilgrims in 1620 as they settled in what is now Massachusetts. It was a foundational agreement that set the stage for self-governance, emphasizing the importance of communal decision-making and collective responsibility.

The term "civil body politic" indicates that the signers recognized the need for an organized society based on consensual governance. By doing so, they established a form of government that would serve the interests of the group and uphold social order, even in the absence of an established authority from England. This concept aligns with principles of democracy, as it reflects a commitment to equality and representation within the community, although it did not fully embody modern democratic practices.

Understanding this context helps emphasize why the Mayflower Compact is significant in the history of American governance, as it laid early groundwork for self-rule and collective decision-making among citizens.