AME Church history

The African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church was founded in 1816 in the United States by Black Methodists seeking to escape racial discrimination within the Methodist Church. Bishop Richard Allen became its first leader. The AME Church aimed to provide a space for African Americans to worship freely and participate in church governance. It emphasized social justice, education, and community empowerment. Over time, it has grown significantly and played a vital role in civil rights movements, advocating for equality and social change. Today, it remains one of the oldest and largest historically Black denominations.