Overview
The story of Christianity in America is a fascinating one, marked by constant change, development, and innovation. The faith has shaped the country, even as the country has shaped it. Award-winning historian Mark Granquist has written an up-to-date telling of this story from the arrival of Europeans to the present day. While the twists and turns are complex, varied, and at times confusing, Granquist has identified several consistent threads that weave their way through the various branches and periods of American Christianity: voluntary religion, pluralism, and an innovative religious marketplace.
The account is comprehensive without being overwhelming. And it is presented in a clear and compelling narrative sure to capture and hold readers' interest. This book is therefore ideal for use in semester-long classes in undergraduate or graduate programs and appealing for general readers. The main text is accompanied by illustrative elements including sidebars, images, maps, and timelines.
The account is comprehensive without being overwhelming. And it is presented in a clear and compelling narrative sure to capture and hold readers' interest. This book is therefore ideal for use in semester-long classes in undergraduate or graduate programs and appealing for general readers. The main text is accompanied by illustrative elements including sidebars, images, maps, and timelines.
Table of Contents
Introduction
1. The Structure and Theology of Christianity in America
2. The Beginnings of Christianity in America
3. Christianity in British America to 1700
4. The Growth of American Christianity and Increasing Pluralism, 1700-1775
5. War and a New Nation, 1775-1810
6. New Frontiers, Renewal, and Growth, 1810-50
7. Slavery, War, and Immigration, 1850-80
8. Mass Immigration, New Ideas, and Tensions over Modernity, 1880-1914
9. War, Prohibition, and the Great Depression, 1914-41
10. The Growth of American Christianity in War and Peace, 1941-65
11. Conflict and Change, 1965-95
12. Growing Pluralism and Shifts in American Christianity, 1995-2022
Epilogue
For Further Reading
Index
1. The Structure and Theology of Christianity in America
2. The Beginnings of Christianity in America
3. Christianity in British America to 1700
4. The Growth of American Christianity and Increasing Pluralism, 1700-1775
5. War and a New Nation, 1775-1810
6. New Frontiers, Renewal, and Growth, 1810-50
7. Slavery, War, and Immigration, 1850-80
8. Mass Immigration, New Ideas, and Tensions over Modernity, 1880-1914
9. War, Prohibition, and the Great Depression, 1914-41
10. The Growth of American Christianity in War and Peace, 1941-65
11. Conflict and Change, 1965-95
12. Growing Pluralism and Shifts in American Christianity, 1995-2022
Epilogue
For Further Reading
Index
Endorsements
“Mark Granquist’s A History of Christianity in America deftly explores Christianity’s vigorously complex expressions across three-plus centuries of American life. Here are the major European denominations, African American communities, startling American-born groups, and invigorating immigrants. We see the changing roles of women, fateful engagements with slavery, revivalists and theologians, war and peace, political interventions, and domestic and world missions—all in one clear, cogent volume. A masterly, fascinating account.”
Jon Butler, Howard R. Lamar Emeritus Professor of American Studies, History, and Religious Studies, Yale University
“American Christianity is an incredible mosaic, and Mark Granquist captures its vibrancy in this lively and engaging history. Students and specialists alike will appreciate the insight and clarity he brings to every topic, from the rise of state churches in colonial America to the ‘God gap’ between Republicans and Democrats in today’s US politics. A superb resource for the classroom or for anyone seeking a reliable guide to Christianity in America.”
Peter J. Thuesen, professor of religious studies, Indiana University Indianapolis
“Mark Granquist’s A History of Christianity in America offers a thorough and insightful exploration of the complexities of American Christianity, weaving historical depth with modern reflections. This book provides a compelling narrative that both scholars and general readers will find invaluable for understanding how Christian traditions have shaped, and been shaped by, American culture.”
Ryan Burge, associate professor of political science, Eastern Illinois University
Author
Mark A. Granquist
Mark A. Granquist (PhD, University of Chicago) is the Lloyd and Annelotte Svendsbye Professor of the History of Christianity at Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota. He is the author or editor of eight publications, including the acclaimed Lutherans in America: A New History, Scandinavian Pietists: Spiritual Writings from 19th-Century Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and Finland, and The Augustana Story: Shaping Lutheran Identity in North America (coauthored with Maria Erling). He is also known as a leading expert on the impact of migration on American Christianity.