What was William Penn’s contribution to Pennsylvania's founding?

William Penn's significant contribution to the founding of Pennsylvania was his promotion of religious freedom for Quakers and other marginalized groups seeking a place to practice their beliefs without persecution. After receiving a land grant from King Charles II, Penn envisioned Pennsylvania as a "Holy Experiment" where diverse religious practices could flourish. This commitment to religious tolerance was not only foundational to Pennsylvania's character but also influenced broader concepts of liberty and individual rights in America.

While trade relations with England were important for the colony’s development, they were not Penn's primary focus nor his most notable contribution. Leading the American Revolution and drafting the US Constitution are both crucial historical events, but they occurred later and were not directly related to Penn's role in establishing Pennsylvania. His vision of a society built on peaceful coexistence and freedom of worship set a precedent for future American values surrounding religious liberty.