STAAR 8th Grade Social Studies Practice Test

Why was the Pennsylvania Colony founded?

Founded by Puritans seeking religious freedom. Founded by Catholics seeking religious tolerance. Founded by merchants for trade opportunities. Founded by Quakers; English colonized here to escape religious persecution (find religious freedom).

Correct Answer:

Founded by Quakers; English colonized here to escape religious persecution (find religious freedom).

Explanation:

Pennsylvania was established to provide a safe haven where Quakers could practice their beliefs freely and where religious tolerance would be built into the colony’s laws. William Penn, a Quaker, received the charter in 1681 with the goal of creating a place that would escape persecution for Quakers and allow religious liberty for others as well. This focus on freedom of worship and fair treatment of different faiths best matches the purpose behind the colony’s founding. While other groups pursued colonies for different reasons—Puritans for reforms in places like Massachusetts, Catholics for Maryland, or merchants for trade opportunities—the defining motive here was religious liberty and refuge for Quakers.

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