Final answer:
The New England Puritans persecuted the Quakers because they saw their rejection of authority and disruption of services as a threat to society. Quaker beliefs challenged traditional English society by rejecting sacraments, liturgies, and social hierarchies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The New England Puritans, who were devout reformers, persecuted the Quakers for several reasons. Firstly, the Puritans believed that the Quakers' rejection of church and secular authority threatened the stability and order of society.
Additionally, the Quakers' interrupting of Anglican and Puritan services was seen as disrespectful and disruptive. The Quaker beliefs and customs also challenged traditional English society by rejecting sacraments, liturgies, paid ministers, tithes, bearing arms, taking oaths, and subscribing to social hierarchies. Their emphasis on individual experience of the Holy Spirit and the equality of men and women in the church diverged significantly from the norms and practices of the time.