The "Old Believers" are a group of Russian Orthodox Christians who separated from the main church in the 17th century. This split occurred due to reforms introduced by Patriarch Nikon of Moscow, which many traditionalists believed altered essential practices and beliefs. As a result, Old Believers sought to preserve the original rituals and texts of the Orthodox faith. Old Believers often faced persecution for their beliefs, leading many to migrate to remote areas, including parts of Siberia and Alaska. They maintain distinct religious practices, including unique liturgies and traditional clothing, and continue to uphold their cultural heritage through community life and customs.