What history does mr malter give to reuven about the hasidim?

Mr. Malter tells Reuven that the Hasidim were first established in Eastern Europe in the 18th century by Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov. The Hasidic movement emphasized mysticism, joy in worship, and the importance of the common people's connection to God. They were in contrast to the more intellectual and scholarly approach of the Mitnagdim, leading to tensions and conflicts between the two groups.