Background information
Quakers were, and still are, known as the Society of friends. The religion began in England in the 17th century. Once they moved to the America's, William Penn founded the state of Pennsylvania for a safe place to live and practice their religion in peace. Nevertheless, once other citizens migrated to their safe haven, chaos erupted. Nobody agreed with their beliefs, they were insulted by the lower class, and if they practiced their religion outside of their home, they were dragged around town by their hair as punishment. The hatred grew so great that their meeting places were robbed of their windows. But even through their hardships, they did manage to accomplish creating a golden rule that we use today, "do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
Quakers impact on slavery
Quakers also had a huge impact on slavery. John Woolman created two essays that helped change the view of slavery. His first essay(right), written is 1754 was "Some Consideration on the Keeping of Negros" was the start of the change of view of slavery. Luckily, shortly before Woolman's death, his father pestered John to express his views. His two essays were published in 1754, changing views on slavery.
History of "Quakers"
Shortly after the English civil war, a young man named George Fox was dissatisfied with the teachings of the Church of England. He had a revelation that "there is one, even, Jesus Christ, who can speak to thy condition," and became convinced that it was possible to have a direct experience of Christ without the aid of an ordained clergy. George Fox then traveled around England, the Netherlands, and Barbados preaching and teaching them that Christ has come to teach his people himself. His followers considered themselves to be the restoration of the true christian church, after centuries of apostasy(a defection or revolt)in the churches in England.
In 1650, George Fox was brought before magistrates(legal system in early England, almost like court) on a charge of religious blasphemy. According to George Fox's autobiography, Bennet "was the first person that called us Quakers, because I bade them tremble at the way of the lord." Quakers also referred to themselves as true Christianity, Saints, Children of the light, and Friends of truth.
In 1650, George Fox was brought before magistrates(legal system in early England, almost like court) on a charge of religious blasphemy. According to George Fox's autobiography, Bennet "was the first person that called us Quakers, because I bade them tremble at the way of the lord." Quakers also referred to themselves as true Christianity, Saints, Children of the light, and Friends of truth.