Here are some concise facts about Thomas Hooker:
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Birth and Early Life: Thomas Hooker was born around 1586 in England.
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Puritan Minister: He was a Puritan minister and a key figure in the early colonial history of America.
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Migration: Hooker emigrated to New England in 1633, initially settling in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
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Founding of Connecticut: In 1636, he led a group of followers to the Connecticut River Valley, where they founded the town of Hartford.
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Fundamental Orders: He is often known as the "Father of Connecticut" and played a pivotal role in drafting the Fundamental Orders of 1638-1639, which is considered one of the first written constitutions that created a government.
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Advocate for Democracy: Hooker was an advocate for democratic principles and believed that the authority of government should come from the consent of the governed.
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Death: He died in 1647 in Hartford, Connecticut.
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Legacy: Hooker's influence extended beyond Connecticut; his thoughts on governance and rights were foundational in the development of American democracy.
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Education: He was educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, where he developed his theological and political ideas.
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Religious Views: Hooker emphasized the importance of individual conscience, which contributed to religious freedom in the colonies.
These facts highlight Hooker's significant role in both religious and political development in early America.