The Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, is a Catholic religious order founded by Saint Ignatius of Loyola in 1540. The Jesuits are known for their commitment to education, mission work, and the promotion of the Catholic faith.
The Jesuit order played a significant role in the Counter-Reformation, working to renew the Catholic Church and counter the spread of Protestantism. The Jesuits became known for their scholarship, missions to distant lands, and the founding of schools and universities worldwide. Jesuit educational institutions are renowned for their high level of education and emphasis on ethical and social training of students.
Throughout their history, the Jesuits have also faced controversies and opposition, including the temporary suppression of the order in 1773 by Pope Clement XIV, which was later restored in 1814. Today, the Society of Jesus continues to be an influential force in the Catholic Church and in the field of education.