Old Order Amish in modern society have retained definite customs and traditions. At the heart of their thinking is the belief that resolving conflicts peacefully within their own cultural group is a necessity. In times of conscription of young men, alternative service in governmental-approved civilian work is performed instead of military service.…

The Holdeman Mennonites live in many states of the United States, and in Canada. They represent a unique culture with definite beliefs and philosophies. The physical appearance of the Holdeman Mennonites readily identifies who they are. Too frequently, outside viewers feel that the Old Order Amish with their horse drawn carriages, horse drawn farm…

The approximately 15,000 Hutterites living in the United States and Canada have a long history of development. Their founder, Jacob Hutter, became a martyr in 1536 in what is now Czechoslovakia. From Czechoslovakia, the Hutterites moved to the Ukraine in 1770 and to the United States in 1874. Hutterite philosophy emphasizes both modern and…

Posits the Old Order Amish as an excellent subject for elementary students to learn about cultures different than their own. Includes a brief but thorough examination of traditional Amish ways and beliefs. Recommends a thoughtful comparison between Amish culture and mainstream U.S. culture. (MJP)