What was a primary reason that colonists came to the Americas?

The Puritans came over to establish a new colony free from religious persecution. Most came as families or to establish families.

Farther south, men came out to "build a fortune" growing cash crops (hence the severe shortage of women)

Hi there!

Colonists came to the Americas for many different reasons. Some came in search of magical or golden cities. Some came for religious freedom, and some came because they were just sick and tired of "God save the King!" (or queen).