Customer Reviews

William Penn and the Founding of Pennsylvania: A Documentary History

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This book provides a different overview of how William Penn found Pennsylvania. Jean Soderlund looks at William Penn through his letters and documents created by him. THe book is not a traditional biography. The author provides commentary about what the reader will see and then presents the documents in their full form. The book tackles many of the early dilemmas but focuses on three major areas. The conflict with Lord Baltimore over the boundaries, security with Indian nations, and the development of tolerant government in Pennsylvania. The other area that does not lend itself to the categories is the first chapter which focuses on getting the domestic affairs of the colony organized in England which is covered thoroughly. Overall it is well done and an interesting look at how Pennsylvania was formed.

If you are researching William Penn, there are a lot of documents. I was hoping for a little more documents on the people who settled with him. Interesting story, not told in the best page turning manner.