The Methodists and Revolutionary America, 1760-1800 : The Shaping of an Evangelical Culture

Rating:
Summary: A concise, cogent narrative
Review: This book elucidates the early Methodist association in the American Revolutionary era and describes its growth and impact on American society. Ms. Andrews acknowledges that although fissures occurred within the Methodist religion, cohesiveness existed among its followers. In fact, an interesting chapter explains that Methodism precipitated opportunity for freedom and advancement for African-Americans. Paradoxically, Methodism advocated the separation of church and state. The narrative illustrates how Methodism differed from other religions in one aspect: Methodism inculcated the members into the faith prior to churchgoers learning the tenets. Additionally, Ms. Andrews argues that the American Revolution galvanized the Methodist association; by 1800, Methodism influenced a large part of the United States. Overall, the author uses useful documentation and appendices, but sometimes quotes to an excessive extent.

Rating:
Summary: A concise, cogent narrative
Review: This book elucidates the early Methodist association in the American Revolutionary era and describes its growth and impact on American society. Ms. Andrews acknowledges that although fissures occurred within the Methodist religion, cohesiveness existed among its followers. In fact, an interesting chapter explains that Methodism precipitated opportunity for freedom and advancement for African-Americans. Paradoxically, Methodism advocated the separation of church and state. The narrative illustrates how Methodism differed from other religions in one aspect: Methodism inculcated the members into the faith prior to churchgoers learning the tenets. Additionally, Ms. Andrews argues that the American Revolution galvanized the Methodist association; by 1800, Methodism influenced a large part of the United States. Overall, the author uses useful documentation and appendices, but sometimes quotes to an excessive extent.