John Robinson (1576–1625) was an influential Puritan pastor and leader of the Pilgrims before their voyage to America. He studied at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, matriculating in 1592, where he developed his Puritan beliefs. Robinson became the pastor of the English Separatist congregation in Leiden, Netherlands, guiding them through years of exile. Though he remained in Europe, his leadership and writings deeply influenced the Mayflower Pilgrims and the founding of Plymouth Colony. He is remembered as a key spiritual mentor for early American settlers seeking religious freedom. Learn more.