Impact of Religion on American History to 1877 - 934 Words

Evidence throughout American history confirms religion has significantly contributed to the evolution of our culture. Multiple events have contributed, including politics, people and weather. Politics and people are widely impacted by religion. Religion is the primary cause of most wars in countries across the world. Many historians believe America was formed on the basis of religion. In this research paper, I will illustrate the impact religion had on American History to 1877. Specifically, it will examine: 1) Major events impacting traditional religious beliefs in America, 2) Religious disputes which impacted land development, and 3) The impact religion had on slavery. Religion is closely tied to events like the Protestant†¦show more content†¦Protestants and Catholics believed religious unity was a critical component to societal existence. The Great Awakening was a precursor to the American Revolution, which ultimately aligned the Republicans and Protestants. Combined into one movement for illustration, it was one of the most significant events in the development of land and politics in the United States (Kerber, 1990). It began in the 1730’s and 1740’s. Pastor Jonathan Edwards, from Massachusetts, started the Great Awakening by affirming the need for God’s grace. He emphasized the need for dependence on grace instead of works alone. Edwards’ doctrine was further expanded by the exuberant preaching of George Whitehead. He led numerous revivals proclaiming God’s divine omnipotence. Their works during the movement revitalized religion in America forever. It removed boundaries between some denominations and created numerous others (Cengage Learning, 2013). Another event significantly impacted by religion in the United States was slavery. Religious freedom was a luxury in Colonial America. Many religions believed slavery was an act of charity. Owning a slave was an extension of their faith. Some religious scholars believed the very root of American slavery consisted in the assumption that political and spiritual law (the bible) reduced men to chattels (Stroud, 1827). Others believed slavery created a paradox in the moral system, reducingShow MoreRelatedEssay on Did Religion Impact American History?561 Words   |  3 PagesEvidence throughout American history, confirms religion has significantly contributed to the evolution of our culture. Multiple events have contributed, including politics, people and weather. Politics and people are widely impacted by religion. Religion is the primary cause of most wars in countries across the world. Many historians believe America was formed on the basis of religion. In this research pape r, I will illustrate the impact religion had on American History to 1877. Specifically,Read More 1870-1880 Essay1417 Words   |  6 PagesWar. America was going through a period called Reconstruction. 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