Over a century ago, the King decided to break from the Roman Catholic church and create the Anglican Church. Ever since, Roman Catholics have been persecuted and even have been exiled from England. A powerful figure in British politics, and a Roman Catholic himself, George Calvert, the first Lord of Baltimore, dreamed of making a farming colony for the religious freedom of those that shared his religion. Sadly, he died before he could create such a colony, and the pressure turned to his sons.
These images depict Sir George Calvert, the man who made up with the idea to colonize Maryland for religious freedom. After his death, his sons were able to do just that in 1632.
In 1632, Cecilius Calvert received a treaty from King Charles I. He was allowed to create a colony near the Potomac River. Sailing on two ships, The Ark and the Dove, they arrived with about 200 Catholics and Protestants, all of which were permitted to large grants. When they arrived, they made the necessary negotiations with the local Native Americans and colonized the region. Surprised with the fertility of the soil, they were able to grow crops in surplus. Cecilius eventually handed the position of Governor to his brother, Leonard Calvert. The Calverts continue to rule Colonial Maryland fairly.
Religion played a crucial role in the founding of Maryland. In fact, the Calvert family, being all Roman Catholic, faced many prejudices in England (more on that in the "Religion" page). The family's vision was to create a colony of full religious freedom. This was wildly popular among Roman Catholics that were considering to escape England but wanted to keep their culture and way of life.
Religion played a crucial role in the founding of Maryland. In fact, the Calvert family, being all Roman Catholic, faced many prejudices in England (more on that in the "Religion" page). The family's vision was to create a colony of full religious freedom. This was wildly popular among Roman Catholics that were considering to escape England but wanted to keep their culture and way of life.