John Smith (founder of the Baptists)

John Smith, often associated with the early Baptist movement, was a 17th-century English religious leader dedicated to promoting believers' baptism—baptism for those who consciously accept their faith—rather than infant baptism. His efforts contributed to the growth of Baptist churches, emphasizing individual faith and religious freedom. While he was not the sole founder of Baptists, his work helped shape the theology and organization of Baptist denominations. Overall, Smith's legacy is rooted in advocating for personal religious conviction and the separation of church and state.