Why did Roger Williams leave the Massachusetts Bay Colony?

Why did Roger Williams leave the Massachusetts Bay Colony?

• A. To pursue a career in politics
• B. He disagreed with the Puritan leaders on religious grounds
• C. He wanted to expand his trading business
• D. He was seeking adventure in unexplored territories

Answer: (B)

Roger Williams left the Massachusetts Bay Colony primarily because he disagreed with the Puritan leaders on religious grounds. As a minister, he believed in the concept of separation of church and state and advocated for religious freedom and the fair treatment of Native Americans. Williams felt that the Puritan government was being too intolerant towards those who held differing religious views. His insistence on these principles led to a conflict with the colony's leadership, pushing him to seek a place where he could practice and promote his beliefs more freely. This ultimately resulted in his departure and the founding of Rhode Island, a colony known for its more progressive stance on religious tolerance and freedom.

Roger Williams left the Massachusetts Bay Colony primarily because he disagreed with the Puritan leaders on religious grounds. As a minister, he believed in the concept of separation of church and state and advocated for religious freedom and the fair treatment of Native Americans. Williams felt that the Puritan government was being too intolerant towards those who held differing religious views. His insistence on these principles led to a conflict with the colony's leadership, pushing him to seek a place where he could practice and promote his beliefs more freely. This ultimately resulted in his departure and the founding of Rhode Island, a colony known for its more progressive stance on religious tolerance and freedom.