The Mayflower Compact (originally "Agreement Between the Settlers of New Plymouth"), dated Nov. 11, 1620, states in part as follows:

We, whose names are underwritten … covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil Body Politick, for our better Ordering and Preservation, and Furtherance of the Ends aforesaid: And by Virtue hereof do enact, constitute, and frame, such just and equal Laws, Ordinances, Acts, Constitutions, and Officers, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the general Good of the Colony; unto which we promise all due Submission and Obedience.