Religion and American Culture

This course surveys the history of American religions from pre-contact times to the present, focusing on the evolution of religious faiths as varying groups came into contact with one another. In particular, the course will analyze how steady immigration and limited governmental intrusion produced a diverse and pluralistic culture that places tremendous value on religious beliefs. In addition, the course will focus specifically on the ways in which Americans have used religion to shape their communities, their cultures, and their nation. Religion has never been simply about belief; it is always about actions as well. As a result, this course will place heavy emphasis on “lived” religion, or religion “on the ground.”

 

This syllabus was created for the Young Scholars in American Religion program.

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