(1585-1652) Puritan minister in England, emigrated to Boston in 1633. Became involved in theological controversy, arguing for salvation through "free grace" rather than works. While several of his allies or students, such as [[Dan's History Web/US 1/Topic Index/Anne Hutchinson]], were punished for their heresies, Cotton was either to cautious or had too much prestige to be the target of prosecution. He made peace with his critics and continued preaching in Boston until his death. Cotton corresponded with a wide range of people including [[Dan's History Web/US 1/Topic Index/Roger Williams]] and [[Dan's History Web/US 1/Topic Index/Oliver Cromwell]]. His family remained well-connected after his death; his grandson [[Dan's History Web/US 1/Topic Index/Cotton Mather]] also became an important Boston Puritan minister.