The First Jesuits were a group of Catholic priests founded by Ignatius of Loyola in 1534. They established the Society of Jesus to promote education, missionary work, and spiritual development. The Jesuits quickly gained recognition for their commitment to teaching and their role in the Counter-Reformation. The early Jesuits focused on spreading Christianity in Europe and beyond, establishing schools and universities. They played a significant role in the Catholic Church's efforts to counter the Protestant Reformation, emphasizing intellectual rigor and personal spirituality. Their influence extended to various regions, including Asia and the Americas.