Analysis Of Anne Hutchinson's Trial

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Anne Hutchinson was not far from the typical religious woman that lived during the 17th century. Mrs. Hutchinson crossed the Atlantic Ocean from England to start a new life with her husband in the New England Puritanism settlement fronted and governed by John Winthrop, an inspirational Puritan leader. The Hutchinson’s embarked to New England to escape what most English Puritans felt like was the eroding of England, as they knew it. Upon arrival to this new settlement, she began questioning many aspects of the social order composed and maintained by John Winthrop and his followers. To converse with others about her concerns, she began holding weekly meetings where she discussed despairing matters relating to Puritanism and the ministers in her colony. Each week, the meetings became increasingly popular, which soon enough caught the attention of John Winthrop. …show more content…
Hutchinson displeased Governor Winthrop as they were testing his authority. He decided that based on her actions, Anne Hutchinson should be prosecuted for her wrongdoings. Mrs. Hutchinson was tried for: “Disturbing the peace of the commonwealth, slandering the ministers, and holding secret meetings.” (Hutchinson, 1768, vol.2) One of the biggest questions surrounding Mrs. Hutchinson’s trial was: what were the reasons for her charges? Did she commit religious heresy as suggested in her formal charges? Or were her charges related to her stark ideals for a woman to postulate during the 17th century? I conclude that Mrs. Hutchinson's charges were not for religious reasons, but rather for her having been a woman. The trial of Anne Hutchinson truly exhibits the reasons for her persecution and showcases how she was not banished for her faith; rather she was tried for possessing ways of thinking not "made" for her