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Mary Fairchild

William Penn's ‘Holy Experiment’

By , About.com Guide   July 16, 2010

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William Penn
Circa 1690, William Penn (1644 - 1718)
William Penn, an English Quaker, sought to guarantee religious freedom, fair governance, a peaceful society, and equality for all citizens while founding the colony of Pennsylvania. He did this by integrating Quaker beliefs into Pennsylvania's system of government. Penn called the endeavor his 'Holy Experiment.'

Pennsylvania's population flourished with immigrants fleeing religious persecution, and as history reveals, it became one of the most prosperous colonies. Penn considered his experiment in Quaker rule a success.

Learn about William Penn's 'Holy Experiment' and decide for yourself if it was successful:

William Penn's 'Holy Experiment'

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