The Amish originated in Switzerland and the Southern Rhine regions of Germany

The Amish originated in Switzerland and the Southern Rhine regions of Germany. A significant number of Amish moved to the United States in the early 18th century.

The Amish originated during the 16th-17th centuries as a departure from the Mennonites based (primarily) on Anabaptist (adult as opposed to child baptism) beliefs.

During the early 18th century (1700's) many moved to Pennsylvania from where they spread though farming communities to various locations throughout the USA (and Canada). The Amish follow old farming practices in communities and as a result require significant tracts of farm land. Migration has often been the result of the result of the need for less expensive land that will support large farm communities.