During the late 17th century and the early 18th century, major changes occurred in colonial America. It was during a period in which the economy was flourishing; America experienced first the Enlightenment and later the Great Awakening.
The Enlightenment
The Enlightenment had started in Europe and it was not until over a century later that it made its way to America. By the time it actually reached America, it had already inspired people in Europe to become interested in education, literature, and science. The movement was advocated by those who believed that progress depended on the ability of humans to reason. This liberal theology, which is referred to as Rational Christianity, was also adopted by some clergy as well. They believed that not merely a chosen group but everyone was given salvation by God. Followers of the Enlightenment believed that reason was the greatest gift God gave to mankind because they were able to follow the ethical teachings of Jesus because of it.
Impact
The role of divine right and religion was challenged by the Enlightenment. As a result, Colonial America realized that they could challenge divine right and the King. Eventually, a scientific approach was taken by the movement to human nature and the world. The movement helped people realize their importance, that they could mould their own lives. As a result of the Enlightenment, the people living in American colonies became interested in education, literature, and science. Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson were two prominent figures who were influenced by the Enlightenment.
The Great Awakening
Many religious and spiritual revivals occurred in the American colonies in the mid seventeen hundreds during the Great Awakening. As a result, the North and South shared similar views, and a common faith was being preached across the races. Eventually, slavery was condemned as a sin by a majority of evangelists. In fact, when the first Methodic conference took place, a decree was passed stating the immediate expulsion of anyone who had slaves.
Before the Great Awakening, people did not have any direction, reassurance and religious purpose. These were fulfilled by the movement, which was named by Joseph Tracy. People began to understand the Christian faith and life, together as one. However, ultimately the importance of the clergy was weakened by the Great Awakening because people began depending on their own conclusions. Separate denominations and sects were created as a result of the movement, and it supported religious tolerance. As a result of this movement, it became easier for the people to challenge the authority of the clergy and the King.
Far-Reaching Impact
For the sake of argument, even though both the movements seem to have a similar goal, the Enlightenment had a far-reaching impact because it the movement was the first to influence the founding fathers of our nation, and it became the basis of our political culture. The Enlightenment came first and led to the Great Awakening.
Works Cited
Foner, Eric. Give me Liberty! an American History. Seagull Third. 1. New York: W.W Norton & Company, Inc., 2008. Print.
