The Quaker movement arose in Northwest England in the mid-1600’s, and soon spread through much of the British isles. Quakerism then spread across the Atlantic Ocean to the East coast of what was then British America in the 1680’s. The distribution of Quakers is very different today, with more Quakers being located in South America and Africa than in Europe and North America.

Meetings rooted in silence and unprogrammed worship were part of the Quaker movement from its very start, and most Quaker Meetings in Europe, the Middle East and the Eastern North America are of this type. The spread of Quakerism around the world in the 19th and 20th centuries was accompanied by increased diversity in theological belief and approaches to worship.

Despite this considerable diversity, Friends worldwide are united by their desire to live their lives in accordance with the testimonies of integrity, equality, peace and simplicity, and to put their faith into action.