American Religious History*

In God we trust. If America is the most religious country in the world, how did we get that distinction? This course is designed to offer students a glimpse at the rich diversity of religious history of the United States. The readings, lectures and online discussion will highlight major movements and religious figures that shaped the distinct forms of faith in our society. We will explore the relationship between American culture and its religious life with particular attention to New England. The course will pay special attention to the impact religion has had on our nation’s history and inversely how religious traditions have been shaped by their encounter with American culture. The will conclude with an examination of current trends and possible future forms of American religion.