Sikhism took birth in the East, in Punjab, India, five centuries ago. The followers, called Sikhs, have spread all over the world not as conquerors of new lands, as the Europeans did four centuries ago, but as seekers of new opportunities in life. With them, the Sikhs carried their unique appearance and their unique philosophy. Sikhs migrated to the West in the latter part of the 19th century. Wherever they went, they established their community and religious centers, the Gurdwaras. In the first two decades of the 20th century, Gurdwaras were founded in Stockton, USA, Vancouver, Canada, and London, UK, to name a few. Now, virtually all large cities in the West have a Gurdwara; many have more than one.

The management committees of Gurdwaras in North America formed the Sikh Council in 1979. They wished to explain how the principles of the Sikh faith are suited for adoption by a person of any background, in any country. The desire to spread this universal message is what gave rise to this text.

Sikhs today have a reputation as brave, fearless saint-citizens, who defend, rather than attack, the rights of the weak. Sikhs have become some of the world's most accomplished sportsmen, scientists, businessmen, politicians, soldiers, and saints. Learning of their rich legacy will help Sikhs feel a sense of pride in their identity and will also help non-Sikhs understand their traits and their inspiration.