Amish

Main website - http://www.padutchcountry.com/towns-and-heritage/amish-country/amish-history-and-beliefs.asp

       The Pennsylvania Amish in Lancaster County are the oldest and largest of all the Amish communities in the United States, arriving in 1720 and with a current population of 30,000. Although originally started in Europe, the Amish religion moved to the US in order to escape persecution for their beliefs. They are of the Anabaptist faith, which means they have made a conscious choice to accept God, and have made their beliefs evident in their lifestyle.

       The main identifying feature of the Amish, is their traditional beliefs and culture. Their main means of living is off the land, with a huge emphasis on farming and living naturally. They have strong views on humility, family and community, as well as separation from the modern world. They don't use electricity, as they feel this connects them to the outside world which will distract them from their faith. The Pennsylvania Amish however are willing to compromise with the modern world by using modern technology, as long as they don't disrupt family or community stability. Obedience and conformity are highly encouraged.

       The Pennsylvania Amish speak Pennsylvania Deutsch, which is mainly German. This means that their interaction with the outside world is further limited due to language barriers. The children learn English in the schools, but German is the main language for worship.

       The Pennsylvania Amish feel that individualism and pride threaten the harmony in which they live. In order to prevent this, they discourage personal bible studies, as individual interpretations may challenge the traditions they have. They all dress similarly and plainly, with the men wearing black suits with suspenders and a hat, either black or straw. Women wear plain, long, modest dresses with aprons. They wear their uncut hair swept up into a bun for practicality, covered by a prayer covering.


Sources
http://theamishvillage.net/lancaster-county-amish
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amish