The Pilgrims who sailed to what is now the United States on the Mayflower laid the foundation for democracy in the United States with the Mayflower Compact. It created a new set of laws for their community and gave them stability in the New World. Vivid historical and contemporary images and intriguing sidebars enhance the accessible text to show readers how crucial this frequently-overlooked document was to the future of America. In addition, critical-thinking questions challenge readers to take what they've learned and apply it to the world around them today.