Roger Williams

Originally Aired: May 14, 1940 Cavalcade of America #187, "Roger Williams," follows the principled minister as he confronts religious tyranny in colonial Massachusetts Bay. Roger Williams preaches passionately against the union of church and state, arguing that the Puritans who fled England seeking religious freedom have now become oppressors themselves, denying freedom of conscience to anyone who disagrees with their beliefs. Despite warnings from his anxious wife Mary and friend John Winthrop, Williams refuses to recant his dangerous opinions before the General Court, insisting that all people—even Jews, Turks, and non-Christians—should have the right to worship freely. The colony's rulers, led by Dr. Hayes and Mr. Winthrop, sentence Williams to banishment for his heresies. When Mary worries about their future and their child Freeborn, Williams remains steadfast in his convictions. The situation grows dire when Thomas Skilton arrives with urgent news: authorities plan to arrest Williams and send him to England in chains as a felon. With John Winthrop's covert help, Williams must flee immediately into the Indian wilderness, leaving his family behind and seeking refuge among the very people whose rights he defended.