Five Imaginary People during the Colonization of America, from 1612 to 1790

Monday, August 4, 1612
<Tab/>Two weeks have passed since my journey from Germany to The Colonies began. I am anxious to arrive in The New World. Life on the ship is, simply put, unpleasant. Quarters are cramped, food is scarce, and disease runs rampant. Yesterday, two passengers were buried at sea. They died from fever and delirium. My time on the ship has not been as harsh as it is for most. I became a deck hand to pay my way. I am regularly fed and I get fresh air and sunlight most days. My job is to distribute food to the passengers and clean the deck. I usually volunteer for the nocturnal watch. I feel that it is to my advantage to spend as little time below deck as possible. I miss my family and although I may never see them again, I know I made the right choice.
Yonaton Divorkin
Thursday, September 14, 1706
<Tab/>I will never be able to thank my grandfather enough for coming to America. Modern Germany has little opportunity available in the business world, especially for Jews. The only intolerance in America is between the Protestants and the Catholics. …