Pennsylvania's Lower Counties Form Delaware
Grade 8 history covers how Pennsylvania lower counties, originally settled by Swedes and the Dutch, eventually formed the separate colony of Delaware in 1704. Feeling their interests differed from the Quaker communities to the north, these settlers successfully petitioned for their own assembly, while continuing to share a governor with Pennsylvania until the American Revolution. This topic is in IMPACT California Social Studies, Grade 8, Chapter 2: Colonial America.
Key Concepts
William Penn's charter for Pennsylvania also included three southern counties along the Delaware River. These lands, originally settled by Swedes and the Dutch, had a distinct culture and history separate from the Quaker communities to the north.
The settlers in these "Lower Counties" felt their interests were different from those in the rest of Pennsylvania. They wanted more control over their own local laws and successfully petitioned for their own assembly in 1704.
Common Questions
How did Delaware form as a colony?
The lower counties of Pennsylvania, originally settled by Swedes and the Dutch, felt their interests differed from Quaker communities to the north. They successfully petitioned for their own assembly in 1704, creating the colony of Delaware.
What was the relationship between Delaware and Pennsylvania as colonies?
Although Delaware had its own legislature after 1704, it continued to share the same proprietary governor with Pennsylvania until the American Revolution, linking the two colonies even as they governed separately.
Who originally settled the lower counties that became Delaware?
The area that became Delaware was originally settled by Swedes and the Dutch before becoming part of William Penn charter for Pennsylvania.
Which textbook covers the founding of Delaware for Grade 8?
This topic is in IMPACT California Social Studies, Grade 8, Chapter 2: Colonial America.
What grade level covers colonial Delaware history?
The founding of Delaware as a colony is typically studied in Grade 8 US history and social studies.