1. Election of Magistrates: The colony was to be governed by magistrates elected by the freemen (property-owning male church members). These magistrates would hold office for one year and were responsible for making and enforcing laws.
2. Religious Freedom: The Fundamental Articles guaranteed religious freedom to all who agreed with the colony's fundamental religious principles. This did not extend to those who held dissenting religious beliefs.
3. Church Membership: Church membership was a requirement for holding public office and voting. Only those who were members of the Puritan church could participate in the colony's government.
4. Property Ownership: In order to become a freeman and participate in the government, individuals had to own a certain amount of property. This limited political participation to those who were financially stable.
5. Civil Administration: The articles established a system of civil administration, including courts and judicial procedures, to maintain law and order within the colony.
6. Education: The Fundamental Articles placed emphasis on education, requiring that every family ensure that their children were taught to read and write.
7. Military Service: All male freemen were required to serve in the colony's military defense, contributing to the security and protection of the settlement.
8. Fair Treatment: The articles promoted fair and just treatment of all, including Native Americans, emphasizing that they should not be wronged or oppressed.
9. Religious Authority: The ministers of the Puritan church held a significant position in the colony, advising the magistrates on matters of religion and morality.
It's important to note that the Fundamental Articles of New Haven reflected the religious and political views of the Puritan founders and were influenced by their desire to create a society based on their theological beliefs and values.