but after they had sailed that course about half a day, they fell amongst dangerous shoals and roaring breakers, and they were so far entangled therewith as they conceived themselves in great danger; and thewind shrinking upon them withal, they resolved to bear up again for the Cape, and thought themselves happy to get out of those dangers before night overtook them, as by God's providence they did. … How does this excerpt from Of Plymouth Plantation show the influence of religion in early American literature? Puritans believed their experiences would influence others to follow God’s path. Puritans believed it was by God’s provision of protection that they survived. Puritans believed God must be included in all written documents. Puritans believed God would give them a simpler path to their destination.