The Baptist denomination is a branch of Protestant Christianity that emphasizes believer's baptism, meaning individuals should be baptized only after making a personal faith commitment to Jesus Christ. Baptists believe in the authority of the Bible and practice congregational governance, where each local church is self-governing and independent. Baptists originated in the early 17th century in England and have since spread worldwide, with significant populations in the United States. They are known for their commitment to religious freedom and separation of church and state, advocating for the right of individuals to interpret the Scriptures.