Elias Hicks was a prominent American Quaker preacher and a significant figure in the 19th-century religious movement. Born in 1748, Hicks is known for his advocacy of a more spiritual and less doctrinal form of Quakerism. He emphasized direct personal experience with the divine, and his teachings encouraged followers to seek inner guidance rather than strictly adhere to established rituals and rules. Throughout his ministry, Hicks was a vocal opponent of slavery, advocating for abolition well before it became a widespread societal norm. His commitment to social justice and equality resonated with many, and he sought to inspire a moral awakening among his contemporaries. Hicks's influence extended beyond the realm of spirituality, as he actively participated in social reform movements of his time. Over time, Hicks's views led to a significant schism within the Quaker community, with his followers forming the Hicksite branch. This division reflected the broader tensions in American religious life during that era, as new interpretations of faith and practice emerged. Despite the controversy, Hicks's legacy remains influential in the ongoing conversation about spirituality and social ethics within the Quaker tradition. Elias Hicks was a prominent American Quaker preacher and a significant figure in the 19th-century religious movement. Born in 1748, Hicks emphasized a personal and spiritual form of Quakerism, which encouraged followers to seek divine guidance from within. His commitment to social justice, particularly his stance against slavery, led to a major schism within the Quaker community, ultimately shaping the future of Quakerism.