Be it known to all.
I, William Penn, do declare that all Freemen, Planters, and Adventurers in this territory have the following liberties and privileges:
Because no people can be truly happy without having civil liberties, the right of freedom of conscience to practice their religious beliefs is guaranteed provided that they believe in one almighty God. They will not be made to do anything against their religious beliefs.
All persons who are Christians may serve in the government.
For the well-being of this colony there will be an Assembly chosen yearly by the freemen in the colony.
Four men who have wisdom, virtue, and ability should be elected from each county to serve in the Assembly.
That all criminals shall have the right to call witnesses to testify at trials.
Because freedom of conscience is so important, I declare that it shall never be taken away by me or those who come after me.
I, William Penn, Proprietor and Governor of Pennsylvania declare for myself and my heirs that these liberties will be held by the people forever.
William Penn