Patrick M. Erben

William Penn—political thinker, activist for liberty of conscience, and colonial founder—was instrumental in the early modern movement for religious toleration and political liberty. As we approach the 300th anniversary of Penn’s death, the time is right for a reexamination and reconsideration of Penn’s importance both in his own time and to the ongoing campaign for political and religious freedom.

William Penn—political thinker, activist for liberty of conscience, and colonial founder—was instrumental in the early modern movement for religious toleration and political liberty. As we approach the 300th anniversary of Penn’s death, the time is right for a reexamination and reconsideration of Penn’s importance both in his own time and to the ongoing campaign for political and religious freedom.