Who are the Amish? Some might respond by simply talking about people who travel in strollers and men with beards. However, according to Clyde Browning, the author of Amish in Illinois, they are "...a humble people living close to the teachings of the Bible and close to the land, a people determined to cling to the ways brought by their ancestors from Europe .” (page XV, 5). There is a large population of Amish in Illinois who have had a great influence on surrounding communities due to their religious beliefs and way of life. They evolved to keep their traditions alive. The Amish are one of several denominations resulting from the Radical Reformation in Europe in the 16th century. The groups that emerged from the Radical Reformation are known as Anabaptists. Anabaptists believe in adult baptism and the separation of church and state. These beliefs distinguish them from the teachings of Catholics and Protestants. These groups were totally opposed to adult baptism. The Amish religion itself arose from a disagreement between Swiss Mennonites in 1693. It was founded in Switzerland by the teachings of Jakob Ammon. He and several others became discontented and eventually separated from their parent Mennonite church (The Amish 8). They aspired to a more strict and simplistic lifestyle. They wanted to return to the original beliefs and practices. They also believed in the rejection process. They came together and formed a group that rejected wars, materialism, and frivolity (Amish 3). Many Amish communities were formed in Switzerland, Alsace, Germany, Russia and Holland (The Amish 8). The Amish immigrated to North America in search of religious freedom (Amish 3). Those who chose to stay ended up joining Mennonite groups (The Amish 8). They settled in the southeast... middle of paper...... but in their homes they still live without electricity and use a horse and buggy to get around for their personal needs (Discover and Learn 1). The Amish are much more than just a “buggy-riding group of bearded men.” They are a people who aspired to a more strict and simplistic way of life and who cling strongly to their past passed down by their ancestors. These are those who appreciate simplicity and live their lives at a slow pace. Illinois' large Amish population has a great influence on surrounding communities. They attract a large tourist population due to their interesting lifestyle. They also provide tourists/foreigners with products such as their fresh pastries and handmade furniture. Thanks to their adaptation to social change, they were able to preserve their faith for so long..