Which cultural group played a significant role in the founding of Pennsylvania?

The correct answer is Quakers. The founding of Pennsylvania in 1681 can be primarily credited to William Penn, a prominent Quaker leader. The Quakers, or the Religious Society of Friends, sought a place where they could practice their beliefs freely without the persecution that many faced in England. Their values emphasized equality, peace, and religious tolerance, which significantly influenced the principles upon which Pennsylvania was established.

In creating Pennsylvania, Penn designed a colony that welcomed diverse religious groups and established a framework of government that reflected Quaker ideals of democracy and fair treatment for all. This inclusiveness allowed various cultural groups to thrive in the colony, but it was the Quakers who were foundational to its vision and development.