It was during the latter half of the eighteenth century in
Europe that some statesmen commenced the much-needed work of
reform. Conspicuous among them was Joseph II of had the right
to regulate the religion of his subjects. In Bohemia a certain
sect was formed, made up of thrifty, honest and hard-working
peasants, who believed in God and named themselves deists. This
offended the Emperor and he gave instructions to have them
brought to justice; those who determined to stand by their
belief were to receive twenty-five lashes “not because they are
deists,” said Joseph, “but because they declare themselves to be
something which they do not comprehend.” The lash did not prove
effective, so he deported them.
(2335)