Politics and religion in the United States (Garland Reference Library of Social Science Volume 1197)

This text examines the interaction between politics and religion in the United States from the days of the early colonial period through the 1990s. It sets the contemporary discussion of politics and religion in the larger context of the entire scope of US history, and traces significant themes over time showing students how the events of the 1990s have their roots in a long process of development. A thorough discussion of historical origins of religion in political life, constitutional matters, public opinion, and the most relevant groups, all while taking theology seriously. Revisions include fully updating all the public opinion data, fuller incorporation of voting behavior among different religious and demographic groups, enhanced discussion of minority religions such as Mormonism and Islam, and new examples throughout