The correct spelling of the religious group known as "the Shakers" is [ðə 'ʃeɪkərz]. The first sound, [ð], is a voiced dental fricative, followed by the schwa sound [ə]. The stress falls on the second syllable, represented by [eɪ], a diphthong made up of the long "a" [e] sound and the long "i" [ɪ] sound. The final sound is [z], a voiced alveolar fricative. Remembering to place the stress on the second syllable can help ensure correct spelling of this word.
The Shakers were a religious sect that originated in the 18th century in England and later migrated to the United States. They were formally known as the United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing but were commonly referred to as the Shakers due to their ecstatic dancing and shaking during worship services.
The Shakers' core beliefs were rooted in the principles of communal living, celibacy, pacifism, and gender equality. They believed in the imminent return of Christ and aimed to create a utopian society that mirrored the heavenly kingdom. They placed great emphasis on simplicity, cleanliness, and order in all aspects of their lives.
Economically, the Shakers were renowned for their skilled craftsmanship, particularly in furniture making, which became their main source of income. They produced elegant, functional, and often minimalist designs that gained popularity for their quality and durability.
Despite their ideals, the Shaker community experienced gradual decline due to their strict celibacy rule and the inability to recruit new members through childbirth. By the late 19th century, there were only a few Shaker communities remaining. Today, the Shakers are recognized for their contributions to craftsmanship, their impact on design aesthetics, and their unique religious practices.
Overall, the Shakers were a religious sect that emphasized communal living, simplicity, and craftsmanship. They strived for an idealistic society while also leaving a lasting influence on art and design.
The word "Shakers" is derived from the religious movement's official name, "The United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing". However, the term "Shakers" was not initially used by the group themselves but was coined by outsiders due to the energetic shaking and trembling movements exhibited during their worship services. This term eventually became widely accepted and used to refer to the religious community.