Originally settled by Swedes, Pennsylvania became the single largest land grant to an individual in history when Charles II of England signed it over to William Penn in 1681. The transaction never turned a profit for Penn, but proved fateful--the colony quickly evolved into a nucleus of American politics, culture, and social reform. This concise volume begins with the history of Pennsylvania from the Native American era to colonial times, when Philadelphia served as the birthplace and first capital of a new nation. It then moves through the centuries to explore the oil, coal, iron, and steel industries that developed in the nineteenth century, ending with an overview of modern-day Pennsylvania, with its varied and complex economy and workforce. * Written in an accessible, popular style * Highlights important trends in politics, society, industry, and culture for each major historical era * 50 b/w photos, illustrations, and maps * Extensive bibliographic list and appendices