Learn About The 50 States
Roger Williams (1602)close
Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island, was born in London, England around 1602, one of four children of a merchant. He took religious orders in the Church of England in 1629. Banished from Massachusetts because of his religious beliefs, he founded a settlement he called Providence. His last years were spent as a community leader; he served as town clerk for many years. He died sometime during the winter of 1682.
Click on any of the names below to find out more...
Looking for a famous American?
This page presents short biographies of more than 200 famous Americans drawn from our unit, "The 50 States." These personalities are arranged by theme.
Just click a theme at the top of the page to view a selection list for that theme.
African Americans:
Artists:
Business Leaders:
National "Characters":
| Phineas Taylor "P.T." Barnum | Clyde Barrow | John Wilkes Booth |
| Butch Cassidy | William "Buffalo Bill" Cody | Davy Crockett |
| Jesse James | Evel Knievel | Harland David "Colonel" Sanders |
| Jefferson R. "Soapy" Smith |
Cultural Figures:
Inventors:
Pioneers and "Firsts":
Politicians & Activists:
Scientists:
Sports Figures:
Accomplished Women:
Writers & Poets: