* Document the Pilgrims' journey to America: He wanted to detail the hardships they faced during the voyage, the challenges they encountered upon arrival, and the establishment of their community.
* Celebrate the success of the Plymouth Colony: He wanted to show how the Pilgrims overcame adversity and created a successful society based on their religious beliefs and principles.
* Provide a source of inspiration: He believed that the story of the Pilgrims would inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps and build a better world.
* Defend the Pilgrims' actions: He wanted to address criticisms of their actions and provide a more nuanced and accurate account of their motivations and beliefs.
In short, *Of Plymouth Plantation* served as a historical record, a celebration of success, an inspirational tale, and a defense of the Pilgrims' legacy. It was written to ensure that the story of the Plymouth Colony would be remembered and appreciated by future generations.