Chapter 2: Encounters and Colonies "Penn's Holy Experiment"

Introduction In 1681 King Charles II gave William Penn the charter to a vast expanse of land that would become Pennsylvania. In England Penn had been persecuted for his religious beliefs, and he was determined that Pennsylvania would be governed with the political freedoms that he and other Quakers sought. In fact, Penn, believing that it was God's plan that people create fair and just governments, called Pennsylvania his "Holy Experiment." Though his time in America was brief, he managed to establish a colonial government that honored religious freedom and demonstrated the beginnings of colonial self-government. This Web site provides a closer examination of William Penn and the establishment of Pennsylvania. Destination Title: William Penn Note: Clicking on the link above will launch a new browser window. Need help using your browser for this activity? Click here for tips. Directions Start at the William Penn site. Browse through the site, taking notes as you go. After you have read through the information, answer the following questions. 1. Why were Penn's negotiations with Native Americans unusual? 2. What significant statutes did the Pennsylvania Assembly pass in the years 1682–1683? 3. Give examples of the early success of the colony. 4. What was the Charter of Privileges? 5. When William Penn received the charter from King Charles II, he posted advertisements in hopes of persuading others to settle in Pennsylvania. On a separate sheet of paper, design a poster that advertises Pennsylvania for settlement. Be sure to list the qualities of the government, the natural resources, and the freedoms that colonists could expect to enjoy.