Which group sought religious freedom and was distinct from the Puritans in their beliefs?

The Quakers, also known as the Society of Friends, were a group that sought religious freedom and held distinct beliefs from the Puritans. Unlike the Puritans, who emphasized a strict interpretation of the Bible and a community-oriented approach to worship, the Quakers advocated for a more personal and direct experience of God. They believed in the "Inner Light," which suggested that each individual has the ability to receive spiritual insights without the need for clergy or sacraments.

Quakers also valued peace, simplicity, and social equality, often leading them to take stances against war and slavery. Their commitment to nonviolence and equality for all individuals, regardless of gender or social status, set them apart from the more hierarchical and doctrinal practices of Puritanism.

In the context of seeking religious freedom, Quakers faced persecution in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, which was dominated by Puritan beliefs. This persecution drove them to seek refuge in more tolerant areas, such as Pennsylvania, which was founded by Quaker leader William Penn as a place for religious freedom and coexistence.