THE ESSENCE OF EXCEPTIONALISM: ROGER WILLIAMS AND THE BIRTH OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM IN AMERICA

Chris Seiple

The Review of Faith & International Affairs, 2012, vol. 10, issue 2, 13-19

Abstract: The brand of American exceptionalism invoked today tends to ignore the importance of religious freedom. Though political rhetoric often heralds the Massachusetts Puritans as the founders of American exceptionalism, Roger Williams’ colony of Rhode Island best exemplified exceptionalism's essence: “liberty of conscience” for every citizen, given of God, protected and promoted by the state. As a colonial outcast who befriended Native Americans and founded Providence, Williams’ legacy should be studied by those seeking to promote a pluralistic public square that is both civil and stable.

Date: 2012
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DOI: 10.1080/15570274.2012.683252

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