HIST313

This course examines the history of religion in what would become the United States, from pre-Columbian times to the first decades of independence from Great Britain. It focuses on European and North American Christianity, but also explores the religious traditions of Native Americans, people of African descent, and others. We will discuss the theological differences that kept religious communities separate from (and sometimes in conflict with) each other. We will also examine the many ways that Americans from different backgrounds came together to embrace common creeds. Throughout the course we will engage popular views of religion and spirituality, including such themes as witchcraft (and witch hunting), folk healing, and popular evangelical traditions. We will chart the ebb and flow of religious culture, from its high points during the First and Second Great Awakenings, to its low points at the beginning of the 18th century and during the American Revolution.