Editing Ann Lee (section)

== Shaker beliefs ==
{{main|Shakers#Theology}}

Shaker beliefs are aligned heavily with those of the Quakers, such as gender equality, community and pacifism; however, the Shakers differ from the Quakers in their belief in celibacy.

Lee believed that celibacy was preferable to marriage, and within marriage, sex was only appropriate for the procreation of children. After her marriage and the death of four infant children, Lee thought that God was punishing her for engaging in sexual relations with her husband.<ref name="Boyko">{{Cite magazine |last=Boyko |first=Boris |date=January–February 2014 |title=Ann Lee, A Woman of Great Faith |url=https://www.libertymagazine.org/article/ann-lee-a-woman-of-great-faith |magazine=Liberty Magazine}}</ref>

The Shakers were incredibly focused on a utopian community where everything was shared and everyone supported. They gathered in villages and lived in dormitory-style homes, encouraging celibacy. Due to the lack of sexual relations, the Shakers adopted children, and when they reached the age of 21 allowed them to choose to stay in the faith or leave to explore other things, giving the religion a way to continue through generations. They also worked hard to find converts.

The Shakers are known for their industry and inventions, including the screw propeller, [[Babbitt (alloy)|Babbitt metal]], automatic spring and turbine waterwheel. They were the first to package and sell seeds, and were once the largest producers of medicinal herbs. Additionally, they were known for their dances and songs as folk art and their craftsmanship. [[Shaker furniture]] is prized today for its functional beauty and lasting nature.