|
The Quaker belief in religious tolerance encouraged people from different ethnic and religious groups to settle Philadelphia making it one of the most diverse cities in America. Quakers also believe in simplicity and sacredness of life. Because of this, most Quakers are pacifists. (Pacifists are people who are opposed to war or violence as a means of resolving disputes.) When the Revolutionary War broke out, Quakers could not defend their rights as colonists and join the army. The Quakers who decided to break this part of tradition founded their own group and became known as the Free Quakers or Fighting Quakers. These Free Quakers joined the army and actively participated in the American Revolution. |
|
| |
|
|
Community Service Since Quakers believe that God lives in every human being, they feel a strong concern for the well-being of others. They believe that a person who lacks a sense of responsibility for others is scarcely human. Because of this belief, they are involved in a wide range of community service activities. Take a look at some of the 18th century organizations Quakers were involved in below. Some of them were created by non-Quakers and some were created by the Quakers themselves. What different groups of people did the Quakers help?
|
|
