We commence with a summary of the period in which John was born; Elizabethan England and its politics are pertinent to how the subject's life ensued. Discontent with religious persecutions they saw as untenable, Alden and the other emigrants to North America planned their voyage to New England. They obtained a ship named the Mayflower for passage, and successfully founded the famous settlement at Plymouth despite shortages of food and adverse conditions. John's role aboard ship was that of cooper; maintaining the barrels which held supplies vital to the passengers' lives.

John Alden's life in Plymouth Colony was defined by diligence and active service. He held roles such as treasurer, served on the Council of War amid conflicts with the local Native American tribes, and also oversaw aspects of trade. Stalwart and responsible in each of his assigned roles, Alden was reelected to the Governor's Council for a consecutive forty-seven years between 1640 and 1686. Living a long and successful life, Alden sired many children and perished aged around eighty-nine; at death, he was the last surviving signer of the original Mayflower Compact.