This book explores the life, work, and enduring influence of Thomas Hooker (1586–1647), a prominent New England Puritan minister and theologian whose contributions to religious and political thought shaped the foundations of early American society. Drawing on his background in England, his leadership in establishing Connecticut, and his groundbreaking ideas on church governance and civil authority, the book traces Hooker's central role in the development of both Congregationalism and the political philosophy that would later define American democracy. Through an in-depth analysis of his sermons, writings, and actions, the book examines Hooker's theological commitment to the covenant, his belief in the autonomy of the church, and his advocacy for a government based on the consent of the governed. His vision of religious liberty and the separation of church and state, though not fully realized in his time, laid the intellectual groundwork for the development of American political principles, including those enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. Central to Hooker's legacy is his leadership in the drafting of the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut, considered the first written constitution in the Western world, which codified the ideas of self-governance, democratic participation, and accountability to the people. The book provides a comprehensive examination of Hooker's impact on the development of democratic thought, his role in creating a model of governance that balanced moral law and individual freedom, and his lasting influence on both the political and religious landscape of New England. By contextualizing Hooker within the broader Puritan movement and exploring his theological and political contributions, the book illuminates how his ideas about religious autonomy, popular sovereignty, and moral governance contributed to the intellectual evolution of America. Ultimately, this work underscores the profound and lasting legacy of Thomas Hooker as a foundational figure in the development of American democracy and religious liberty.