how rhode island was founded
History of Providence. One of the oldest cities in the United States, Providence was founded by Roger Williams in 1636 after he was banished from the Massachusetts colony for his religious views.Because of his policy of complete religious toleration, Rhode Island became a haven for refugees from bigotry.ne of the oldest cities in the United States, Providence was founded by Roger Williams in 1636 after he was banished from the Massachusetts colony for his religious views.