Throughout a long journey and endless flight the Mennonites have suffered religious persecution almost wherever they were. In the story "sailing to Danzig" the author Rudy Wiebe describes the life of a man who is searching for his identity through historical books and the tales of his family members.
             The Mennonites religious movement was first started during the "protestant reformation" in the "1520's" and was led by "Menno Simons" (Encarta). Originating in Switzerland it was not very long before they were "prosecuted" because they "refused to sanction war or to enroll in the military", because of their peaceful beliefs (Encarta). They fled to numerous parts of the world such as "the Rhinelands and the Netherlands, others to America (Pennsylvania), and still others to Eastern Europe." (Encarta)
             As a Mennonite the main character of "Sailing to Danzig" explores his past through books and memories to cement his beliefs. Genealogical history accentuated by religious persecution an isolationist living can help explain one's religious and family values.
             The Mennonites throughout their existence have had a tumultuous history. Because of their strong beliefs on various topics and their sect like behavior of seclusion the Mennonites as well as other religious groups such as the Hutterites and the Amish have had to flee to other countries to seek refuge and peace.
             The Mennonites were targeted since they were created for many different reasons but a few are common and persistent. The move away from the Roman Catholic church was one of the main reasons for their persecution. The Protestants under King Henry the VIII had a leader and were a large group, unlike the Anabaptists who were divided into small groups and therefore more easily preyed on. Their belief such as their position against infant baptism were strongly disliked th...