They are descended from Germans and Swiss

The origins of the Amish come from a split within a group of Mennonites around the 1600s and are composed of descendants of Germans and Swiss who migrated to the United States and Canada.

The Amish have roots in both German and Swiss Anabaptist traditions. The Anabaptist movement, which gave rise to the Amish, emerged during the 16th-century Reformation in Europe. 

This group’s origin specifically traces back to the Anabaptist movement in Switzerland, particularly influenced by the teachings of Menno Simons, a Dutch Anabaptist leader, and Jacob Amman, a Swiss Anabaptist leader. The name ‘Amish’ is derived from Jacob Amman’s surname.

Over the centuries, the Amish have maintained their distinctive way of life, preserving their cultural and religious identity through a combination of tradition, community practices, and adherence to a set of principles often referred to as the ‘Ordnung.’

Additionally, individuals who are not Amish are referred to as ‘English’ by Amish communities.