Maryland

Definition

One of the original thirteen colonies, Maryland was founded by Lord Baltimore as a refuge for English Catholics. It's known for its religious tolerance and diverse economy.

Related terms

Act of Toleration: A 1649 Maryland law that provided religious freedom for all Christians.

Lord Baltimore: The founder of Maryland, he intended it to be a refuge for persecuted Catholics from England.

Proprietary Colony: A type of colony where all land belonged to one person (the proprietor), who could rent or sell land in any way they chose.