What is the theme in Voyagers to the West by Bernard Bailyn?

Throughout Bailyn's work, the theme of opportunity springs up in the accounts of emigrants, land speculators, and recruiters. First, many individuals emigrated from the British Isles, because they believed that the colonies offered them an opportunity to better their lives. Bailyn notes that many individuals stated for the Register that this was their primary reason for leaving. Even when economics played a large role in pushing them toward emigration, the individuals hoped that the colonies would bring them a fresh start and a better life.