Religion in Early America

Colonies and Founders

This site, from the Library of Congress, offers an interactive history of religion in the early colonies of the United States. "The efforts of the Founders of the American nation to define the role of religious faith in public life and the degree to which it could be supported by public officials that was not inconsistent with the revolutionary imperatives of the equality and freedom of all citizens is the central question which this exhibition explores. "

http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/religion/

A Bigger Picture

This site, designed for teachers of the Humanities, includes information about early religious groups, religious movements, historical spritual "Awakenings" in the United States, and other religious beliefs. It's a great starting-point for the student interested in knowing more about this topic.

http://nationalhumanitiescenter.org/tserve/divam.htm

Salem Witch Trials

One of the most widely-known and discussed events related to religion in U.S. History is the Witchcraft trials of Salem, MA. (the trials are the subject of Arthur Miller's The Crucible). During the winter of 1692, two young members of this Puritan community began accusing community members of witchcraft, and the terror and suspicion grew from there. Want to know more?

This is a page about witchcraft and the trials from the official website of present-day Salem , MA. See how they present themselves today and learn about this event's importance not only as it offers insight into that religious community, but also as an illustration of the legal system of that time.

http://www.salemweb.com/guide/witches.shtml