Question

Why did Lord Baltimore encourage the assembly to pass the Act of Toleration? He knew the colony needed more immigrants to succeed, so he welcomed Protestants as well as Catholics. He was concerned about Maryland’s close proximity to Protestant Virginia. He had a religious experience that convinced him it was the correct thing to do. He feared Catholics might lose their rights due to tension between them and Protestants.

Answer 1

Lord Baltimore encouraged the assembly to pass the Act of Toleration primarily because he feared that Catholics might lose their rights due to growing tensions between Catholics and Protestants. The colony of Maryland was established as a haven for Catholics, but as Protestant settlers began to arrive—especially with the influence of the nearby Protestant colony of Virginia—there was increasing concern over potential conflict and the loss of rights for the Catholic population. By passing the Act of Toleration in 1649, which granted religious freedom to all Christians and ensured protection for Catholics, Lord Baltimore aimed to secure a peaceful coexistence between the two groups and stabilize the colony, attracting more immigrants and fostering economic success. This act was significant in promoting a degree of religious tolerance in the early American colonies.