"Men's consciences ought in no sort to be violated, urged, or constrained. And whenever men have attempted any thing by this violent course, whether openly or by secret means, the issue has been pernicious, and the cause of great and wonderful innovations in the principallest and mightiest kingdoms and countries."

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Source: The Bloudy Tenent of Persecution, for Cause of Conscience. Book by Roger Williams. Address to Parliament, 1644.

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Roger Williams

Theologian, Minister

Roger Williams was a 17th-century theologian and founder of Rhode Island, known for his pioneering ideas on religious freedom and the separation of church and state.

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