What phrase did John Winthrop use to describe the Massachusetts Bay Colony's vision?

John Winthrop used the phrase "City upon a hill" to articulate the vision of the Massachusetts Bay Colony as an ideal community that would serve as a moral and spiritual example to the world. This phrase reflects the aspirations of the Puritans who settled in New England, highlighting their belief that they were creating a society rooted in strict religious observance and communal responsibility.

The concept of a "City upon a hill" emphasizes the idea of visibility and accountability; they believed that their success or failure would be closely observed by others, making them responsible for upholding their values. This vision underscored the importance of unity, moral integrity, and a sense of purpose in their new society. It continues to resonate in American political and cultural discourse today, often cited to suggest the United States' role as a model for democracy and morality.