Religion didn't just shape the colonies but it is a founding principle that led to the development of other colonies as well. The religious sects of a colony, not where people came from, distinguish most colonies. Religion just doesn't affect local towns; it affects the laws and the local government of the colonies. Religion has been a big factor in shaping the colonies.
             Much of the growth of the American colonies came from religious groups. Unlike investors and workers, religious people bring their families along. These people believed that the New World was a refuge or haven against persecution in England. As a result, there was massive immigration to the New World. In 1632, Maryland colony was made to be a safe spot for Catholics but the majority of the population were Protestants. So Lord Baltimore (proprietor) adopted a policy of religious toleration. This policy greatly favored Catholics, so there were conflicts between Protestants and Catholics that lasted for many years. In 1630s, Puritans mostly colonized Massachusetts Bay. The Puritans believed in predestination or original sin. The Puritans were a powerful influence in the government of Massachusetts Bay, which makes up most of New England. The Puritans made their own government that benefited them only and didn't allow practice of any other religion. Also the Puritans were plain and didn't like radical changes to their society. For ex: Anne Hutchinson tried to obtain power even though being a woman. She was harshly judged by Puritans and was killed. The Puritan ideals have influenced America greatly. For ex: America, in modern times, is considered to be a puritanical society because it censures everything.
             Pennsylvania is one of the unique colonies. The population of Pennsylvania is mostly made up of Quakers. The Quakers were a Protestant group in Europe that was greatly disliked because they were pacifists (didn't fight in war). The Quakers wan...