Religion in American History (Great Awakening)

Essay by bccocxHigh School, 11th gradeA+, December 2004

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It is hard to believe that one of the major reasons America came to be is because of a religious quarrel in Europe. It was not the only reason the pilgrims landed in Jamestown in 1607, but religion did play an important role in the numerous arrivals of Europeans in America. It is hard to believe that without the reformation of the United States of America it might have became the United States of England.

The effect of the Protestant Reformation in Europe still has lasting effects today. First of all, some countries are still divided because of it. In Ireland, for example, there is still turmoil between the Roman Catholics who hold a grudge against the Protestants. When Martin Luther posted his ninety-five theses on the church door in Wittenberg it is doubtful that he had any idea that he was about to change the world. He started a religious revolution which affected both Europe and North America.

After he posted his theses people started to realize that they should not have to stay a part of one religion that may not even agree with all of their personal beliefs. Also around the same time, Henry VIII needed to get out of a marriage... and Roman Catholicism was not too keen on the splitting of marriages. He was a powerful man, since he was a king and all, so all he had to do was create his own branch of Christianity. It is hard to believe that Protestantism was created because of a man wanting to have more children. After this, many people started to stray from the idea that most peoples who follow Roman Catholicism believe: that the Pope is the true benefactor of God. The Reformation also made many people want to depart Europe to travel to...