Early Life

Anne Hutchinson was born in 1591 in Alford, England. She grew up in a deeply religious family and learned to read the Bible at a young age. She married William Hutchinson in 1612, and together they had many children. In 1634, the family left England for the Massachusetts Bay Colony in America, seeking religious freedom.

Religious Beliefs and Conflict

In Massachusetts, Hutchinson began holding meetings in her home where she discussed sermons and shared her own interpretations of the Bible. She believed that people could have a direct relationship with God without the help of ministers. This belief challenged the strict religious leaders of the colony, who feared it would weaken their authority.

The Antinomian Controversy

Hutchinson’s ideas sparked what became known as the Antinomian Controversy, a major dispute over religious authority. She criticized ministers for teaching that people could earn God’s grace through good deeds, instead of relying on faith alone. Her popularity and boldness worried the leaders, including Governor John Winthrop.

Trial and Banishment

In 1637, Hutchinson was put on trial for her religious views and for challenging the leaders’ authority. She defended herself skillfully but was eventually convicted of heresy and banished from Massachusetts. She and her family moved to Rhode Island, which was known for religious tolerance.

Later Life and Legacy

Anne Hutchinson later moved to what is now New York. In 1643, she and most of her family were killed during a Native American attack. Despite her tragic end, Hutchinson is remembered as a strong, independent woman who fought for religious freedom and the right to speak one’s mind.

Discussion Questions

1. Why did Anne Hutchinson’s beliefs cause such a strong reaction from the Puritan leaders?
2. How did Hutchinson’s trial show the limits of religious freedom in the Massachusetts Bay Colony?
3. What does Hutchinson’s story tell us about women’s roles in early colonial society?
4. Do you think Hutchinson was more of a religious leader or a political figure? Why?

Glossary

• Heresy – Belief or opinion that goes against official religious teachings.
• Antinomian – A person who believes that faith alone, not good works or obedience to laws, is needed for salvation.
• Puritan – A member of a strict Protestant religious group that wanted to “purify” the Church of England.
• Banish – To force someone to leave a place as a punishment.
• Religious Tolerance – Allowing people to practice different religious beliefs without punishment.

Five Interesting Facts

1. Anne Hutchinson had at least 15 children.
2. She was one of the first women to publicly challenge Puritan religious leaders.
3. Her trial transcript is one of the most detailed records from colonial America.
4. Rhode Island’s founder, Roger Williams, supported her right to speak freely.
5. She is considered an early advocate for freedom of speech and religion in America.

Timeline

• 1591 – Born in Alford, England.
• 1612 – Married William Hutchinson.
• 1634 – Moved to Massachusetts Bay Colony.
• 1637 – Put on trial and banished from Massachusetts.
• 1643 – Killed during an attack in New Netherland (now New York).

Anne Hutchinson Activities

Do They Have it Common? Roger Williams and Anne Hutchinson - Lexile 800

Ahead of Their Time Writing Activity