What is friendly society? How to use in English

The term "friendly society" emerged in early 19th century Britain, where small groups of people banded together to provide mutual support and financial assistance to their members. These organizations, known as friendly societies, were founded on the principle of friendship, mutual aid, and self-help. The word "friendly" in this context refers to the sense of camaraderie and goodwill that developed between members of these societies. It conveyed the idea that these organizations were more than just financial institutions; they were also social networks where people could connect, share experiences, and provide emotional support to one another. The word "society" was used in a broad sense to describe any group of people who shared a common interest or purpose. In this case, it referred to the collective identity and cooperative spirit that characterized these organizations. The phrase "friendly society" became popular in Britain during a time of social and economic upheaval, when many people felt disillusioned by the traditional social structures and institutions that had long governed their lives. Friendly societies offered an alternative model of social organization, one that was democratically run, egalitarian, and focused on meeting the needs and aspirations of ordinary people. Today, the term "friendly society" is less commonly used in its original sense, but it continues to evoke a sense of trust, solidarity, and mutual support among people who share a common goal or experience. Its legacy can be seen in many modern organizations, such as community groups, professional associations, and mutual aid societies, which continue to promote the principles of friendship, mutual aid, and self-help.