Ann Lee emerged as a significant Christian leader in the 1700s, whose teachings challenged societal norms. Her life and work played a pivotal role in the development of the Shaker movement in America.
Early Life and Convictions
In 1770, Ann Lee faced imprisonment for a month in Manchester due to her disruptive activities during a church service. While in jail, she experienced a profound personal revelation that celibacy would be a fundamental tenet of the Shaker faith, which she later established.
Journey to America
Lee’s vision for a new religious community became clearer in 1774. On May 10, she set sail from Liverpool to New York with a small group of followers, including her brother, William Lee, and her husband. This marked a significant step in the establishment of the Shaker movement in the New World.
Challenges in the New World
Upon arriving in America, tensions were high as the Revolutionary War loomed (1775-1783). Lee and her followers, known for their strict pacifism, faced widespread suspicion. She was accused of being a British spy after she refused to pledge loyalty to New York State.
Imprisonment and Persecution
Lee’s refusal led to an extended imprisonment, where she remained until Governor George Clinton intervened for her release. Additionally, she and her followers endured harassment and physical attacks from mobs opposed to their beliefs.
Legacy of Ann Lee
Ann Lee passed away in 1784, just a decade after her arrival in America. It is believed that the injuries she sustained from assaults played a role in her untimely death. However, her legacy endured, with the Shaker community growing to an estimated 5,000 members by 1850.
Impact on Gender and Social Equality
- Lee promoted a groundbreaking belief in gender equality.
- She viewed all individuals as equals, emphasizing a brotherhood and sisterhood among followers.
Elizabeth De Wolfe, a professor at the University of New England, notes that Lee’s vision transformed the faith and social dynamics of her time, establishing her as a crucial figure in American religious history.
