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Timeline of the Anabaptist Movement

1525

Anabaptist movement begins in Zurich, Switzerland, with first adult baptisms of Conrad Grebel, Felix Manz, and Georg Blaurock.

1527

Schleitheim Confession written by Michael Sattler. Felix Manz becomes first Anabaptist martyr.

1534-1535

Münster Rebellion led by radical Anabaptists ends in a violent siege and the execution of its leaders. This event tarnishes the Anabaptist reputation; persecution increases.

1536

Menno Simons, former Catholic priest, joins the Anabaptist movement. His leadership organizes and focuses the movement.

1540s-1550s

Severe persecution of Anabaptists across Europe drives many to flee to more tolerant regions, such as Moravia (Czech Republic), where they establish communal settlements.

1600s

Mennonites migrate to the Netherlands and northern Germany for relative tolerance and economic opportunities.

1663

First Mennonites migrate to North America, settling in Pennsylvania, which offers religious freedom under William Penn’s leadership.

1683

Germantown, Pa., founded by thirteen German Mennonite families; first permanent Mennonite settlement in America.

1693

Followers of Jakob Amman (known as Amish) split from Mennonites over issues of church practice.

1700s

Many Anabaptists migrate to North America to escape persecution and economic hardship.

1760s

Hutterites, an Anabaptist group in Moravia, flee persecution by migrating to Romania and later to Ukraine.

1817-1820

Hutterites migrate from Ukraine to Russia, where they are granted religious freedom and military exemption.

1870s

Due to changes in Russian policies, many Anabaptists migrate to the U.S. and Canada.

1874

First group of Russian Mennonites arrives in Manitoba, establishing farming communities.

1890s

Some Mennonites migrate to Latin America, especially Paraguay and Mexico, seeking land and religious freedom.

1917-1920s

Russian Revolution and subsequent persecution drive many Anabaptists to North America and Latin America.

1940s

During and after World War II, many Mennonites from Europe and the Soviet Union migrate to North and South America to escape war and oppression.

1950s-1970s

Anabaptist groups, including Mennonites and Amish, experience growth and expansion in North America.

2000s

Anabaptist communities are found worldwide, with growing populations in Latin America, Africa, and Asia.

2015

Global Mennonite population over 2 million, highest in Africa and Asia.

2025

Anabaptists commemorate 500 years guided by Christ-centered community, witness, and peace.