George Fox founded the Society of Friends - more familiarly known as Quakers - in the mid-17th century in the midst of massive upheaval and war in England. The Quakers, who preached peace, equality, and freedom of conscience, were a reviled sect and subjected to persecution before James II proclaimed Christian toleration in 1687. In an effort to establish a safe haven for Quakers, William Penn established the Pennsylvania colony, where he hoped to put the Quaker ideal into practice. This lecture is intended chiefly for students taking courses in US History, but may be relevant for other subject areas, as well. For more instructional materials, visit my website: www.tomrichey.net