Final answer:
The claim that the Shakers are a Latter-day Saint type of religious family is false; they are a distinct group with unique beliefs such as celibacy, gender equality, and communal living.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the Shakers are an example of a Latter-day Saint type of religious family is false. While both are religious movements that emerged in the United States during the 19th century, they are distinct in their beliefs and practices. The Shakers, or the United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing, are known for their communal living, celibacy, gender equality, and their unique worship practices that included rhythmic shaking, which is how they got their name. They also practiced racial equality and were pacifists. The Shakers added to their community primarily through adoption and conversion rather than natural growth due to their celibate lifestyle. In contrast, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as Mormons, do not practice celibacy and are known for their patriarchal leadership structure and family-oriented faith.
Historically, the Shakers established their communities with the goal of creating a heaven on Earth, influenced by a belief that Christ was present on Earth as the Holy Spirit. Their belief in the dual nature of God as male and female and their emphasis on gender and racial equality set them apart from many other religious movements of their time. The American Shaker church was founded by a woman named "Mother" Ann Lee, who is seen as the female counterpart to Christ. The Shakers' rule of celibacy, which contributed to their membership decline, and their spiritual practices, such as the rapturous dances, are some of their most defining features.