Massachusetts Bay 6: The King's Threat

When Archbishop Laud investigated Massachusetts's activities, he learned that the charter had been taken to America, and prepared to take over the colony.  With the looming threat, the colony worked hard to keep its citizens from provoking a confrontation with the king. It was in this atmosphere that John Endicott cut the St. George Cross from Salem's royal standard.  In addition, as French, Dutch, Plymouth and Massachusetts settlers competed for land, a series of territorial disputes took place.