Canonicus (c. 1565 – June 4, 1647) was a Native American chief of the Narragansett. He was a firm friend of English settlers. Canonicus was born around 1565. In 1636, he gave Roger Williams the large tract of land which became the first nucleus of the colony of Providence Plantation. In 1637, Canonicus was largely responsible for the Narragansetts' decision to side with the English during the Pequot War. Canonicus was succeeded by his nephew Miantonomoh; he returned to power after Miantonomoh was killed in 1643. Canonicus died in 1647.[1]