Jacob Ammann (c. 1644-c. 1711) was the founder of the Amish Mennonites. Ammann was an Anabaptist minister from Switzerland who strictly followed the practice of “avoidance.” In 1693 he and 4,500 followers permanently left the Mennonite church, which disagreed with his views. Various attempts at reconciliation have proven unsuccessful. His convictions continue to influence the Amish to this day.
