William Penn was an English Quaker and the founder of Philadelphia, established in 1682. He received a land grant from King Charles II as repayment for a debt owed to his father. Penn envisioned Philadelphia as a place of religious freedom and tolerance, where people of different faiths could live peacefully together. Penn's principles were rooted in his Quaker beliefs, emphasizing equality and justice. He designed Philadelphia with a grid layout, promoting community and accessibility. His leadership and vision helped shape the city into a significant cultural and political center in early American history.