Author Archives: Rebecca Beatrice Brooks

About Rebecca Beatrice Brooks

Rebecca Beatrice Brooks is the author and publisher of the History of Massachusetts Blog. Rebecca is a freelance journalist and history lover who got her start in journalism working for small-town newspapers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire after she graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a B.A. in journalism. Visit this site's About page to find out more about Rebecca.

The Mayflower Compact

The Mayflower Compact was a social contract the pilgrims signed in November 1620 in order to establish law and order in the new colony. Why Was the Mayflower Compact Written?… Read more »

"The Witch, No. 1," lithograph by Joseph E. Baker, published by George H. Walker & Co, circa 1892

History of the Salem Witch Trials

The Salem Witch Trials of 1692 were a dark time in American history. More than 200 people were accused of practicing witchcraft and 20 were killed during the hysteria. Ever… Read more »

History of the Mayflower Ship

The Mayflower is one of the most important ships in American history. This cargo ship brought the pilgrims to Massachusetts during the Great Puritan Migration in the 17th century. These… Read more »

Trimount in 1630, painting by Samuel Lancaster Gerry, circa 1836

History of the Boston Landfill Project: How Boston Lost Its Hills

Anyone who has visited modern day Boston, Massachusetts might be a little confused to hear it was once a small hilly peninsula less than 800 acres wide. The city is… Read more »

History of Boston, Massachusetts

The history of Boston is an important part of the history of the United States as a country. Boston is one of the most historic towns in Massachusetts. It is… Read more »