The inspirational story of a persecuted minister who risked treason to secure religious liberties for all.
"JOHN CLARKE," tells the story of Baptist Minister Dr. John Clarke and his determination to fight against religious oppression, the erosion of his own personal rights, increasing hardships, and the danger of being accused of treason to obtain the Rhode Island Royal Charter of 1663 from King Charles II. This charter allowed Rhode Island to form an autonomous government and enjoy extensive Religious Freedom and Civil Rights, significantly altering the course of American history.—Andrea M Clarke
Rarely do people speak of or remember peaceful, honorable men and their world changing contributions. As a direct descendant of Joseph Clarke, Dr. John Clarke's youngest brother, I am passionately driven to share with the world the importance of John's life, his unwavering commitment to "Soul Liberty" and founding of Newport, Rhode Island where persons were welcomed to practice their faith without fear of persecution.
In 1634, 140 Years before the 56 Signers of the Declaration of Independence risked their livelihoods to form the United States of America, Baptist Minister and Physician Dr. John Clarke along with his young wife Elizabeth set sail from England to escape religious persecution under the King's rule. No sooner was John ashore in Boston; he was disarmed, banished in the dead of winter, arrested for holding an "unlawful worship service", thrown in jail, threatened with death by the Governor of Massachusetts and sentenced to 20 lashes on the whipping post.
As a Protestant Minister, John was well aware sailing back to London in 1651 would place him directly into the Lion's Den as Rhode Island's Agent of Record. His soul purpose was unwavering clear: to secure the independence of the Colony from the King of England no matter the cost.
1651 was a tumultuous era in London, King Charles I was executed 2 years earlier with Lord Cromwell The Protector" dominating the new regime. In 1660, King Charles II came back in power and brutally hunted down the 59 signers of his father's death warrant, namely Lord Cromwell. This was known as the "Regicides". How John Clarke survived these times, including his involvement with the Fifth Monarchists , is nothing short of miraculous.
Referencing John's book "Ill Newes from New England" and scores of historical research, our inspirational film, a full-feature Historical Drama, will bring you into Dr. John Clarke's world and his journey to overcome religious persecution, loss of personal freedoms and risk of treason to triumph in obtaining Religious Freedom and Civil Liberties for the Colony of Rhode Island, ultimately changing world history.
