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Religious Influence
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Whitfield Arrives in America
George Whitfield arrives in Savannah, Georgia. In 1740, he will venture from New York City to South Carolina giving several sermons to large audiences furthering his celebrity-like status. A prominent figure during the Great Awakening. He is also credited along with brothers John Wesley, “The father of Methodism,” and Charles Wesley for establishing the Methodist Church. -
John Edward's Revival Tour
John Edwards begins his revival sermons in Suffield, Massachusetts during a time of the Great Awakening. Two days later he will give his most affected sermon called, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," in Enfield, Connecticut. Edwards along with Whitfield, will offer momentous perceptiveness during a period of cultural change. -
Jacob Duché appointed chaplain
Jacob Duché is appointed chaplain to the Continental Congress at Carpenter's Hall in Philadelphia. He is responsible for initiating the tradition of opening prayer in the House and Senate. Also, he is responsible for the ceremonial inaugural prayer which has become a custom since 1937. -
Thomas Jefferson's Drafts Revisions to Virginia Bill
In Virginia, Thomas Jefferson drafts revisions to the Virginia Laws establishing religious freedom and also advocates the separation of religion and government. This will eventually become into law on January 16, 1786, known as the Virginia Statue for Religious Freedom. It would later be the driving force for ratifying the First Amendment of the U. S. Constitution. -
Second Great Awakening
On August 6, 1801, in Cane Ridge, Kentucky, thousands will gather to continue the promotion of evangelical revivalism and evangelical salvation. Cane Ridge will become the central force during the Second Great Awakening around 1790-1820's, a time when some colonials feared the nation would fall into atheism or deism. -
Jefferson's Letter to the Danbury Baptist Association
Jefferson will write a letter to the Danbury Baptist Association of Connecticut explaining his beliefs on federalism. In his letter, Jefferson will state, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." In addition, Jefferson will coin the famous quote, "...thus building a wall of separation between Church and State" which is still used today.
