The Amish are a sect of the Christian faith that believe strongly in tradition. They were originally part of the Mennonite sect in Europe, but a group led by Jacob Ammann broke away in 1693 because they felt the Mennonites had strayed from the strict austerity of their ancestors. Eventually the followers of Ammann left Europe because of persecution by the Catholics and Protestants. They have allowed more modern technology as we've entered the computer age so that their businesses can support their large families. Land is scarce and many must make their livelihood in manufacturing or handcrafts. But they hold to many traditions established in the 17th century believing it keeps their communities together and their people dependent on God as their provider.
