Thomas S. Kidd, born January 1, 1971, is an American historian specializing in the history of religion, with a focus on evangelicalism, Baptists, and their role in American founding. He holds the John and Sharon Yeats Endowed Chair of Baptist Studies at Baylor University while also serving as Research Professor of Church History at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. A prolific author, Kidd has written notable works including a biography of 18th-century preacher George Whitefield, whom he describes as profoundly influential on the American nation's founding, as well as books like 'God of Liberty: The American Patriot's Declaration of Dependence' and 'Thomas Jefferson's Qur'an: Islam and the Founders.' His scholarship often explores the intersection of religion, politics, and liberty in early American history. Kidd received his PhD in History from the University of Notre Dame in 2002, following a BA from Georgetown College in Kentucky (1993). Prior to his current positions, he taught at Baylor University in various roles. He is recognized as a public intellectual, frequently contributing to discussions on religion in American public life through articles, op-eds, and media appearances, including being quoted in relation to figures like David Wood.