The Shakers were one of the oldest and most successful religious communal sects in the United States and, with one minor exception, the only one composed of native-born Americans of varying ethnic and religious backgrounds. "Tis the gift to be simple," sings one of the Shakers' rhythmic songs. Simplicity, hard work, and the love of God formed the very core of the Shakers' existence. They were gentle, peace loving people who believed in racial and sexual equality, love of neighbor, conservation of resources, and pacifism.