Roger Williams
Early Life
Roger Williams was born in London, England, in 1603. His father, James Williams, was a merchant tailor, and his mother, Alice Pemberton, was the daughter of a clergyman. Roger Williams was educated at Charterhouse School and then at Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1627.
Journey to America
In 1630, Williams and his wife Mary boarded the ship Lyon and set sail for the New England colonies. Upon arrival, Williams became a minister in the town of Salem, Massachusetts. However, his radical religious views, which included a belief in the separation of church and state, led to his banishment from the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1635.
Founding of Rhode Island
After his banishment, Williams and a small group of followers established a settlement they named Providence in what is now Rhode Island. This settlement was unique in the colonies as it was founded on principles of complete religious toleration, separation of church and state, and political democracy. It served as a refuge for religious minorities, including Baptists, Quakers, and Jews.
Contributions to Religious Freedom
Williams is perhaps best known for his staunch advocacy for religious freedom. He believed that civil authorities had no right to enforce religious laws or to punish religious infractions. His writings on religious liberty were influential in shaping the religious climate of the colonies and ultimately the United States.
Death and Legacy
Williams died in Providence in 1683. His legacy lives on in the state of Rhode Island, which continues to uphold his principles of religious freedom and separation of church and state. His writings and teachings have had a lasting impact on American religious and political thought.