Who was the young convert to the Quaker faith that founded Pennsylvania?

William Penn was a young convert to the Quaker faith who founded Pennsylvania in the late 17th century. He envisioned Pennsylvania as a place of religious freedom and tolerance, particularly for Quakers who faced persecution in England. Penn's belief in the equality of all people and his commitment to fair dealings with Native Americans shaped the development of Pennsylvania as a diverse and pluralistic society. His leadership and principles attracted a variety of settlers, contributing to the colony's reputation as a haven for dissenters.

In contrast, Roger Williams was known for founding Rhode Island on principles of separation of church and state, while Cecil Calvert was instrumental in establishing Maryland as a refuge for Catholics. Anne Hutchinson was a Puritan dissenter whose challenging of religious authorities led to her exile from Massachusetts rather than a founding figure of a colony. Thus, the distinction of being a Quaker and the founder of Pennsylvania uniquely identifies William Penn.