Francis Allen (1518/19-66/76)

Francis Allen was an English religious radical and Anabaptist preacher during the mid-16th century. Details regarding his precise birth and death years are uncertain, hence the dual dates provided. He is primarily known for his dissenting theological views, advocating for believer's baptism and rejecting infant baptism, a core tenet of Anabaptism. Allen's activities took place during a turbulent period of religious reformation in England, marked by shifting allegiances between Catholicism and Protestantism under the reigns of Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I, and Elizabeth I. Consequently, those holding radical religious views, such as Allen, often faced persecution.

Records indicate Allen was active in London and other areas of southern England. He preached and proselytized, gathering small groups of followers who shared his Anabaptist beliefs. His teachings, which challenged the established Church of England, brought him to the attention of authorities.

Historical documentation on Francis Allen is sparse, relying primarily on court records and reports from his opponents. This makes a complete reconstruction of his life and theological positions challenging. However, the available information confirms his role as a significant, albeit lesser-known, figure in the English Reformation's radical religious landscape. The difficulty in pinpointing exact dates underscores the limited record-keeping of individuals considered heretical during this period. He should not be confused with other individuals named Francis Allen from later periods.