William Turner (biographer)

William Turner (fl. 1683 - 1701) was an English biographer and nonconformist minister. He is best known for his biographical works focusing on prominent figures within the dissenting Protestant community in England.

Turner's writings provide valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of individuals who faced religious persecution and contributed to the intellectual and social landscape of the late 17th century. While precise details of his early life and ministerial career remain somewhat obscure, his surviving biographies offer a tangible connection to the lived experiences of those who challenged the established Church of England.

His notable works include biographical accounts contained within larger religious or historical publications, often emphasizing the piety and moral character of his subjects. These biographies served to memorialize dissenting leaders and to provide models of faith for future generations. The exact number and titles of Turner's distinct publications remain a subject of scholarly investigation, as his work sometimes appears within larger compilations attributed to various authors or editors. His style is generally considered didactic, aiming to instruct and inspire readers in their own spiritual journeys.