William Penn (24 October 1644 (O.S. 14 October 1644) – 30 July 1718) was an English real estate entrepreneur, philosopher, early
Quaker and founder of the
Province of Pennsylvania, the English North American colony and the future
Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania. He was an early advocate of democracy and
religious freedom, notable for his good relations and successful treaties with the
Lenape Native Americans. Under his direction, the city of
Philadelphia was planned and developed.