In 1676, persecuted Quakers in England seized an opportunity to create their own “commonwealth” in the failing colony of New Jersey. This was six years before they established Philadelphia across the Delaware River.
They applied their basic Christian values, especially the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” They consulted with Enlightenment philosophers John Locke and Algernon Sidney. They learned from and avoided mistakes previously made in Virginia, Plymouth, and Massachusetts Bay.
They settled only on land that was either unclaimed or voluntarily sold to them by Native Americans for a fair price. They had no wars or “Trail of Tears.” Slaves were quickly freed. Boys and girls were educated and prepared to be productive and self-sufficient. Women held leadership positions.
They established limited, frugal governments with very few laws and paid officials. However, they effectively protected people and their property. They quickly and peacefully settled disputes. They required almost no taxes. People kept and enjoyed most of what they earned. There were “boundless opportunities” for almost everyone to succeed.
By 1776, Philadelphia, with its New Jersey suburbs, was the largest, wealthiest, and most successful city in British North America.
1676 Project is bigger than New Jersey. It presents a complete and honest history that explains what brought “exceptional” greatness to all of the United States. It is fully illustrated, clearly written, and easy to read. However, it contains passages from many original sources to promote deeper understanding. Its comprehensive endnotes encourage fact-checking and further research.
