What was unique about the settlement established by Roger Williams in 1636?

The settlement established by Roger Williams in 1636, known as Providence, was unique primarily because it recognized the rights of Native Americans and involved paying them for their land. This approach reflected Williams' belief in fairness and justice toward the indigenous peoples, contrasting sharply with many other colonial practices of the time, which often involved forceful takeovers of land without compensation.

Williams advocated for the separation of church and state, as well as religious freedom, which contributed to a more equitable treatment of Indigenous peoples in his settlement. His commitment to these principles laid the groundwork for the eventual establishment of Rhode Island as a haven for various religious groups seeking freedom from persecution.

While the other choices contain elements relevant to the broader context of Williams’ ideals and the formation of communities during this period, they do not specifically highlight this critical distinguishing feature of the settlement he founded.