Which of the following best compared the role of religion in early new England and maryland

The roles of religion in early New England and Maryland highlight significant differences shaped by the distinct religious ideologies and political contexts of each region.

1. **New England:**
- Predominantly Puritan, New England's society was heavily influenced by a strict interpretation of Calvinism. The Puritans sought to create a "godly community" and believed that religion should play a central role in governance and daily life.
- The Massachusetts Bay Colony, for example, implemented theocracy-like governance where church leaders held significant power. Religious conformity was enforced, and dissenters, such as Roger Williams and Anne Hutchinson, faced persecution.
- Religious practices and beliefs were closely intertwined with community life, including education, social structure, and laws, leading to a culture that valued a communal approach to faith.

2. **Maryland:**
- Founded as a haven for Catholics, Maryland's original charter emphasized religious tolerance, particularly for Catholics who faced discrimination in Protestant-dominated England.
- The Act of Toleration (1649) allowed for the coexistence of various Christian denominations, although it mainly protected Trinitarian Christians. This fostered a more pluralistic society than that of New England, where dissent was less tolerated.
- While Maryland had tensions between Catholics and Protestants, especially later in its history, the initial intention was to create a space for religious freedom, contrasting sharply with the rigid Puritanical structure in New England.

In summary, while New England was characterized by a theocratic society with strict religious conformity led by the Puritans, Maryland began as an experiment in religious tolerance aimed at protecting Catholic settlers, ultimately allowing for a more diverse religious landscape.