Rhode Island's Founders

Take a journey with us back to early America, where Rhode Island's founders laid the groundwork for America's policy of religious freedom.

Dr. Patrick T. Conley, Rhode Island's preeminent historian, is our guide for this expedition, teaching us about the individuals and events that shaped Rhode Island's identity. Learn what led Roger Williams to write The Bloudy Tenent of Persecution and discover how James Franklin, older brother of Benjamin, left a lasting impact on the future of American publishing. Find out why Mary Dyer fought for her religious beliefs until she became one of the "Boston martyrs"; how Anne Hutchinson overcame a male-dominated society to allow women the right to preach and teach; and how General Nathanael Greene helped to liberate the South during the American Revolution. These colorful biographies of political, military and religious leaders, artists and craftsmen, scientists and philanthropists illuminate the beginning of America's smallest state, but one that has always exhibited remarkable diversity.