It is not uncommon to hear Christians argue that America was founded as a Christian nation. But how true is this claim? In this compact book; David L. Holmes offers a clear; concise and illuminating look at the spiritual beliefs of our founding fathers. He begins with an informative account of the religious culture of the late colonial era; surveying the religious groups in each colony. In particular; he sheds light on the various forms of Deism that flourished in America; highlighting the profound influence this intellectual movement had on the founding generation. Holmes then examines the individual beliefs of a variety of men and women who loom large in our national history. He finds that some; like Martha Washington; Samuel Adams; John Jay; Patrick Henry; and Thomas Jefferson's daughters; held orthodox Christian views. But many of the most influential figures; including Benjamin Franklin; George Washington; John and Abigail Adams; Jefferson; James and Dolley Madison; and James Monroe; were believers of a different stripe. Respectful of Christianity; they admired the ethics of Jesus; and believed that religion could play a beneficial role in society. But they tended to deny the divinity of Christ; and a few seem to have been agnostic about the very existence of God. Although the founding fathers were religious men; Holmes shows that it was a faith quite unlike the Christianity of today's evangelicals. Holmes concludes by examining the role of religion in the lives of the presidents since World War II and by reflecting on the evangelical resurgence that helped fuel the reelection of George W. Bush. An intriguing look at a neglected aspect of our history; the book will appeal to American history buffs as well as to anyone concerned about the role of religion in American culture.
#88543 in Books 2005-09-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 5.30 x .60 x 7.90l; .52 #File Name: 0195181301253 pages
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Solid four starsBy Megan S. MaxwellNot being a Thomas Jefferson (TJ) fan; I appreciated this book as a quick overview of his life; times; and most important decisions. It fairly identified TJ's shortcomings without diminishing his impact on American history or continued relevance today.I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants an introduction to TJ; though I only gave it four stars for the same reason I chose it: it's conciseness. The book's very brevity made it in some cases too concise. I feel like to even begin to have a working knowledge of TJ; I would need to read another book. What I have learned from this book is just enough to keep me from making major errors regarding his achievements and aims as a philosopher; scientist; partisan; and President.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. excellent introduction to JeffersonBy J. DooleyThis book is concise and easy to read; which is important to maintain the reader's interest. You'll learn many things about Jefferson that you didn't know; especially his nuanced feelings about slavery. What's most interesting is the often overlooked time Jefferson spent in Europe. Understanding this period of Jefferson's life is crucial to understanding his sympathy for the French Revolution; which was one of a couple of major points of contention between Jefferson and Hamilton. (By the way; the Jeffersonians and Hamiltonians were the first major political divide in America.)Bernstein achieves what is very difficult: withhold judgment on Jefferson and let the facts speak for themselves. After reading several books about the Founders; I've found that Jefferson is an idealist to a fault and much too faithful in the goodness of men. Also; his determination not to choose sides between the French and British was one of a series of mistakes made by Presidents Adams through Madison that left America open to attack from the British in 1812.My only complaint of this book is that the chapter on Jefferson's second term in office is rather brief. Besides that; it is pleasantly informative and balanced.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Someone I Might Like To MeetBy Richard PinderAlright; I have to admit that I was not close to being a TJ fan prior to reading this book. Like most of us; he was certainly a walking contradiction in his own right; but unlike most of us; he has been revered times over; walking contradictions and all. Yet; also unlike most of us; he has been extolled as one of the "Greats" as a Founder of these United States. This is the first bio I have had the opportunity to read though; that has humanized Jefferson; and I have to admit; my stand has softened. Where before I did not clearly understand why he was such an advocate for the Bill of Rights; I understand better now that I see how his views were at first shaped by the relationship of England with pre-Revolution America. Then seeing how he was at ringside for the tyranny attempted by aristocracy in government while serving in France; it all comes clearer to me. Jefferson is extraordinary in his ordinary-ness. He is smart and insightful without trying to impress with his smarts and insightful-ness. He is a Statesman without trying to be overbearing in Statesmanship. He is again; someone who is humanized by Bernstein. Thomas Jefferson will never know it; of course; but thanks to Mr. Bernstein; you are someone I think I would like to meet.
