What was the primary focus of the Quakers in opposition to the established religious norms of their time?

The primary focus of the Quakers, also known as the Society of Friends, was promoting religious tolerance and the idea that individuals could have a personal relationship with God without the need for formal clergy or established church structures. This belief led them to challenge the hierarchical and dogmatic practices of mainstream religions during their time. Quakers advocated for the equality of all individuals, regardless of gender or social status, which included respecting the spiritual experience and rights of individuals across different faiths.

Quakers' commitment to pacifism and non-violence also underscored their belief in a tolerant and compassionate society, where differing religious views could coexist peacefully. Their emphasis on inner experience and direct communion with the divine was revolutionary in the 17th century and contributed to broader movements towards religious freedom and pluralism. This belief set them apart in a period often characterized by intense religious conflict and persecution.