History Great Awakening

Impact of the Great Awakening on Society

Promoted equality Anyone could be saved; Blacks and women considered equals within the "New Light" movement Challenged established authority "Come as you are" Laid the foundations for the American Revolution

The Great Awakening

A religious movement that swept through the colonies and Europe during mid 1700s Rapid growth of evangelical religions such as Methodist and Baptist First real common colonial experience

Religious impact of the great awakening

Challenged the established religious beliefs, practices, and institutions Popularity of evangelical movement and style of preaching creates problems for established churches

Reasons for the Great Awakening

People begin to feel as though religion was dry, dull, and distant Believed the public had "fallen asleep" piously and needed to be woken up

First Great Awakening

The First Great Awakening affected British North America in the 1730s and 40s. True to the values of the Enlightenment, the Awakening emphasized human decision in matters of religion and morality. It respected each individual's feelings and emotions. In stark contrast to Puritanism, which emphasized outward actions as proof of salvation, the Great Awakening focused on inward changes in the Christian's heart. a revival movement meant to purify religion from material distractions and renew one's personal faith in God. The movement was a reaction against the waning of religion and the spread of skepticism during the Enlightenment of the 1700s.

Summary

The Great Awakening was a movement that altered religious beliefs, practices and relationships in the American colonies. It was parallel to the Enlightenment both in its values and its time frame. Traveling preachers gave emotional, entertaining sermons that emphasized a change of heart, a personal relationship with Jesus and an inward focus rather than tradition, ritual and deeds. Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield were two of the most influential preachers of the time. They held their meetings outside under tents and welcomed anyone who wanted to listen. The First Great Awakening broke the monopoly of the Puritan church as colonists began pursuing diverse religious affiliations and interpreting the Bible for themselves. It also challenged the social establishment in several ways, fueled northern sentiment against slavery and resulted in the founding of some of America's most respected universities.

How did the great awakening affect the American revolution?

The great Awakening affected the American Revolution by new ways of thinking lead the colonists to question religious authority in turn allowed/prompted them to question the kings rule over the colonies. (Future Rebellion)

What Ideas Did the Great Awakening Spread?

The idea of equality, rights, and freedom spread. Colonists began to believe they were created equal and they could question religious authority. They could be their own church leaders. This opened their minds growth outside of religion.

What was the Great Awakening?

religious movement