Great Awakening
Definition
The Great Awakening refers to a number of periods of religious revival in American Christian history. Historians identify three or four waves of increased religious enthusiasm occurring between the early 18th century and late 20th century.
Analogy
Imagine if everyone suddenly started playing Pokémon Go again after years - that's kind-of what happened with religion during The Great Awakening. It was like a spiritual renaissance where interest in religion surged again.
Related terms
Revivalism: Increased spiritual interest or renewal in life, particularly a Christian context. This term is associated with religious movements that have occurred since evangelism began.
Jonathan Edwards: A preacher, philosopher, and theologian who played a critical role in shaping the First Great Awakening.
Evangelicalism: A worldwide trans-denominational movement within Protestant Christianity maintaining that essence lies not necessarily on doctrines but on the new birth experience.
"Great Awakening" appears in:
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Practice Questions (7)
Which of the following describes the impact of the Great Awakening on the American colonies in the 18th century?
The Great Awakening resulted in…
What was a significant effect of the Great Awakening in the American colonies during the mid-18th century?
Who was responsible for initiating the Great Awakening during period two?
What is a key similarity between the Great Awakening of the mid-18th century and the Counterculture Movement of the 1960s?
What did the Great Awakening contribute to developing an American identity?
How did the Great Awakening influence early American society?
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