In 1632, England's King Charles I granted land in America to George Calvert, who became the first Lord Baltimore. The original charter, given to George Calvert included the present state of Delaware, and parts of Pennsylvania and West Virginia. These boundary lines would be disputed in years to come. Lord Baltimore was given almost absolute power to rule his new proprietary state. With this power, Lord Baltimore declared that in his charter, any emigrant who settled in Maryland would have equality in religious rights, civil freedom, and an independent share in the legislation of the province. But before the charter was signed, George Calvert died. The charter was given to George Calvert's son, Cecilius. Cecilius became the second Lord Baltimore and signed the state's charter.

The first settlers, about 300 strong, reached Maryland in March of 1634. They settled on St. Clement Island. They purchased their land, tools and food from...