This insightful new conceptualization of American political history demonstrates that—despite the clear separation of church and state—religion lies at the heart of American politics. From the Puritan founding to the present day; the American story is a moral epic; James Morone says; and while moral fervor has inspired the dream of social justice it has also ignited our fiercest social conflicts.From the colonial era to the present day; Americans embraced a Providential mission; tangled with devils; and aspired to save the world. Moral fervor ignited our fiercest social conflicts—but it also moved dreamers to remake the nation in the name of social justice. Moral crusades inspired abolition; woman suffrage; and civil rights; even as they led Americans to hang witches; enslave Africans; and ban liquor. Today these moral arguments continue; influencing the debate over everything from abortion to foreign policy.Written with passion and deep insight; Hellfire Nation tells the story of a brawling; raucous; religious people. Morone shows how fears of sin and dreams of virtue defined the shape of the nation.
#1653341 in Books 2002-05-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 .87 x 6.06 x 9.60l; 1.20 #File Name: 0300090404304 pages
Review
7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. A Tremendous Example of Historical ResearchBy Armando J. MartiI read it in three days.A must have book for anyone interested in the Conquista and early colonization of the Caribbean and America in General. I also believe that anyone interested in the life and deeds of Christopher Columbus should read this work.The authors' combination of archaeological excavation with documentary research is excellent and should serve as an example for future research projects. Furthermore; some of the discoveries they made will be quite unexpected and surprising for the general public; and even for those familiar with their work.Despite the fact that both Deagan and Cruxent are highly regarded experts in Caribbean archaeology; they have written a book that can be enjoyed by the general public.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. fascinatingBy Seth J. FrantzmanThe story of the first Spanish settlement in the New World and its relationship with the local Taino Indians on Hispanola. Established by Columbus in 1493 the settlement faced hard times to carve out an existence in a new land. This story uses archeological evidence and other sources to tell the story. A fascinating history that is both obscure; small and very colorful.Seth J. Frantzman
