George Fox Biography Profile

The English Dissenter George Fox was said to live from July 1624 to January 1691, and was the founder of the Religious Society of Friends. This would later become commonly known as the Quakers or Friends. George Fox began in rural England as the son of a poor weaver, and spent his earliest years as an apprentice to a cobbler. This was a time of great upheaval and war in England, and George Fox felt strong rebellion towards the chaos. His act of dissention was to form one of the most rigid and uncompromising forms of the Christian faith to combat what he saw around him.

George Fox left his cobbler apprenticeship and began a vast tour of Britain as a riotous preacher. He would often encounter authorities wherever he traveled that persecuted him for his rigorous beliefs and vocal rebellion.

Fox went on to finally marry Margaret Fell, the widow to one of his most wealthy supporters. She would be by George Fox’s side and join the Friends. Fox’s ministry continues to grow and expand, including tours of North America and the Low Countries. During this time of ministry, Fox faced imprisonment for a whole year. It wasn’t until the end of his life that Fox worked in London to organize and expand his Quaker movement that would eventually travel to the United States with great internal support.

The ministry of Mr. Fox was a great source of disdain for many people, but it seems that where there were those who utterly loathed his teachings there were a few others who considered Mr. Fox their champion. William Penn and Oliver Cromwell were two notable religious philosophers and leaders who were influenced by George Fox and had a great respect for him. His famous journal is known by Quakers and non-Quakers alike for its wonderful writing and recounting of his journey.

George Fox died two days after he finished preaching at Gracechurch Street Meeting House in London. He was finally interred in the Quaker burial ground at Bunhill Fields. Thousands of mourners came to pay their respects and mourn for his death.

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