Who was involved in the development of the Baptist religion?

The Baptist religion emerged in the early 17th century, with key figures including John Smyth and Thomas Helwys, who are often credited as the founders of the first Baptist congregation in England. They advocated for believer's baptism and religious freedom, diverging from the practices of the Church of England. The movement later spread to America, where leaders like Roger Williams and Anne Hutchinson further shaped Baptist beliefs and practices.