-
The First Great Awakening
The First Great Awakening started in the 1730s and ended around 1743. This was a Protestant revivalism in the British Atlantic that included the Congregationalists, Anglicans, and Presbyterians. They also rejected what appeared to be sterile, formal modes of worship in favor of a vigorous emotional religiosity. It was followed by the New Lights and rejected by the Old Lights. [110-111] -
The Enlightenment: The Age of Reason
The enlightenment emphasized reason over superstition and science over blind faith. This was a religious tolerance throughout Europe and the Americas. The Enlightenment promoted the power of reason and scientific observation. This was also the major turning point in Western Civilization, an age of light replacing an age of darkness. [112-113] -
Dr. Squintum's Exaltation or the Reformation
George Whitfield is shown here being satirized for preaching to enslaved African Americans and others in Pennsylvania. -
A War of Religion
Religion during the American Revolution offered a moral sanction for opposition to the British. Meaning that revolution was justified in the sight of God. The Church of England was split by the Revolution. With God's help, America may become "the principal Seat of the glorious Kingdom.." [Library of Congress; The American Revolution and Religion] -
The Virginia Statue of Religious Freedom
The Virginia Statue of Religious Freedom ended the Church of England's hold and allowed religious liberty. This meant that no one could be forced to attend or support a specific church or be prosecuted for his/her beliefs. [194] -
The French Revolution: Cult of the Supreme Being
During the French Revolution in France, religion was replaced with the new philosophy known as the Cult of the Supreme Being. The months of the year were renamed and employed the guillotine against their enemies. [219]
