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William Penn was an English Quaker leader and founder of the colony of Pennsylvania. Born in 1644, he was the son of a wealthy English admiral and was well-educated at Oxford University. In 1681, Penn received a land grant from King Charles II, and he used it to establish a colony in America that was based on religious freedom and fair treatment of Native Americans. He worked to create a government that guaranteed freedom of worship, fair treatment for all, and democratic principles. Penn also played a key role in the development of the city of Philadelphia, which became an important center for political and social reform. His legacy as a champion of civil liberties and religious tolerance continues to be celebrated today.