1. Catholicism: Maryland was founded as a refuge for English Catholics who were facing religious persecution in England. The Calvert family, who were prominent English Catholics, established the colony as a haven for Catholics to practice their faith freely.
2. Anglicanism: The Church of England was the established church in Maryland, as in other English colonies. Many early settlers of Maryland were Anglicans, and the Anglican Church played a significant role in the colony's social and political life.
3. Puritanism: Puritans, who sought to purify the Church of England from what they saw as Catholic practices, formed a notable minority in Maryland. They established their own churches and communities and played a role in shaping the colony's religious landscape.
4. Quakers: Quakers, also known as the Society of Friends, were another religious group present in Maryland. They emphasized pacifism, simplicity, and direct communication with God. They faced some persecution in the early days of the colony, but eventually gained religious toleration.
5. Other Protestant denominations: Various other Protestant denominations, including Baptists, Methodists, and Presbyterians, also emerged in Maryland over time. These groups gained strength in the 1700s and contributed to the religious diversity of the colony.
It's important to note that religious tolerance was a gradual process in Maryland. While it was established as a haven for Catholics, tensions and conflicts between different religious groups still occurred. Over time, however, Maryland became known for its relatively tolerant religious climate, allowing for a variety of religious beliefs to coexist within the colony.