History of Pennsylvania

  • Early Exploration

    Early Exploration
    In 1607, Jamestown, Virginia was the first established settlement. Later, in 1609, Henry Hudson was sent to explore, discovering the Hudson River. The English colonies later expanded to what is now Pennsylvania.
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    English Control

    Engliand defeats Holland in a war, gaining control of their colonies. Pennsylvania is a part of the New Amsterdam colony, which they rename New York.
  • King Charles Signs the Charter of Pennsylvania

    King Charles Signs the Charter of Pennsylvania
    King Charles owed money to William Penn Sr., so he repayed him by granting land to his son, William Penn Jr. This is like the Birth Certificate of Pennsylvania.
  • The Great Law

    The Great Law
    The Great Law is a series of laws created by Pennsylvania's first government by the Quakers. These laws had four main topics - all religions welcome, no work on the Sabbath, prisons were work houses, and only those who murdered and commited treason were able to be punished with death.
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    The French and Indian War

    The French and Indian WarThe French and Indian War was an important part of Pennsylvania history. Many battles were fought here and it decided the fate of the land.
  • Pennsylvania: Pre-Revolutionary War

    Pennsylvania: Pre-Revolutionary War
    Revolutionary War Pennsylvania was the third largest English colony in America, and Philadelphia was the second largest English speaking city. Philadelphia was the center for many revolts such as to The Stamp Act.