
What was the reason behind people coming to Rhode Island?
Rhode Island, the smallest state in the United States, has a rich history shaped by its founding principles of religious freedom and tolerance. In the early 17th century, many sought refuge in Rhode Island due to religious persecution in other colonies. Led by Roger Williams, a dissident Puritan minister, settlers flocked to the region to escape the strict religious laws imposed by Massachusetts Bay Colony. With its promise of religious liberty and individual rights, Rhode Island became a safe haven for those seeking social and religious freedom. Today, this legacy continues to define the state’s unique character and diverse population.