What was the primary reason for the establishment of the Maryland colony?

The primary reason for the establishment of the Maryland colony was to provide a refuge for English Catholics. Founded in 1632 by Cecil Calvert, the second Lord Baltimore, Maryland was envisioned as a safe haven for Catholics facing persecution in Anglican England. The colony operated under a charter that allowed for religious freedom, particularly for Catholics, which was a significant draw at a time when religious intolerance was prevalent. This focus on creating a sanctuary for a specific religious group distinguishes Maryland from other colonies that were often established primarily for commercial interests or other political reasons.

While trading opportunities, military considerations, and agricultural development certainly played roles in the broader context of colonial America, the unique impetus for Maryland's founding directly stemmed from its mission to cater to the needs and safety of Catholics, serving as a crucial point in the early history of religious freedom in America.