Browne, Christopher. "A New Map of Virginia, Maryland, and the Improved Parts of Pennsylvania & New Jersey." 1685. Relief shown pictorially. Depths shown by soundings. Retrieved from: https://www.loc.gov/item/2005630923/
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Maryland – Founded as a Safe Haven for Persecuted Catholics from England
Introduction:
Maryland, a state located on the eastern coast of the United States, has a rich and diverse history. One significant aspect of Maryland's founding is its role as a safe haven for persecuted Catholics from England. In this literary nonfiction text, we will explore how Maryland came to be established as a refuge for Catholics, the subsequent rise of Protestant settlers, and the passage of the 1649 Maryland Toleration Act, which promoted freedom of worship for all Trinitarian Christians.
Section 1: The Establishment of Maryland as a Safe Haven
In the early 17th century, England was torn by religious conflicts between Catholics and Protestants. Catholics faced severe persecution under the rule of Queen Elizabeth I and King James I. Seeking religious freedom, George Calvert, the first Lord Baltimore, envisioned a colony where Catholics could practice their faith without fear of persecution. In 1632, King Charles I granted Calvert a charter to establish the Province of Maryland.
Section 2: The Arrival of Protestant Settlers
While Maryland was initially founded as a refuge for Catholics, Protestant settlers soon began to outnumber the Catholic population. This shift in demographics was largely due to economic opportunities and the promise of land ownership. Many Protestants from England, Scotland, and other European countries flocked to Maryland in search of a better life. As a result, the religious landscape of the colony began to change.
Section 3: The Maryland Toleration Act of 1649
In response to the growing Protestant population, the Maryland Toleration Act was passed in 1649. This groundbreaking legislation provided religious freedom and protection for all Trinitarian Christians, including both Catholics and Protestants. The Act ensured that individuals of different religious beliefs could worship without fear of persecution or discrimination.
Conclusion:
Maryland's founding as a safe haven for persecuted Catholics from England played a crucial role in shaping its early history. While the colony was initially intended to provide religious freedom for Catholics, the influx of Protestant settlers led to a change in demographics. However, the passage of the Maryland Toleration Act in 1649 demonstrated a commitment to religious tolerance and laid the foundation for the state's future as a diverse and inclusive society.
Remember, it is essential to respect and appreciate the religious diversity that exists within our community and to ensure that everyone has the freedom to practice their beliefs without fear of persecution or discrimination.
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