Summary
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Americans debated whether religious and political authority should be combined or separated. Some argued that establishing an official state church or religion would promote virtue, encourage moral behavior, and keep society unified, but others argued that state involvement would corrupt and undermine religion and that church and state should be separate. Should the governments of early America permit religious freedom, or would such freedom harm society?
This eBook examines religious freedom in early America and delves into the pro and con arguments that surrounded it. It includes a timeline, primary sources, a bibliography, and a "Learn More About" chapter with more information on the topic.