The Middle Colonies attracted a mix of immigrants from Dutch, French, Belgian, and Swedish backgrounds who sought a better life. The Great Awakening religious movement in the region was led by George Whitefield and emphasized emotional, personal faith and tolerance of differing views. People of many religious groups lived together in the Middle Colonies and enjoyed community barn raisings and other social events in their free time. The largest city, Philadelphia, was purposefully designed and grew under leaders like Benjamin Franklin who established important civic institutions.