History 410: Religion in American History, explores the role of religion, with particular emphasis on Christian denominations, in major developments of American history, such the American Revolution, nineteenth-century evangelicalism, the evolution of higher education, the Civil Rights Movement, and the rise of the Religious Right. Students will grapple with enduring questions concerning the relationship between church and state, the role of personal faith in civic activism, and the viability of theological commitment amid religious pluralism.
Book List:
- Allitt, Patrick. Religion in America since 1945: A History. New York: Columbia University Press, 2005. ISBN 978-0-231-12155-2. $28.00.
- Gaustad, Edwin S., and Leigh E. Schmidt. The Religious History of America: The Heart of the American Story from Colonial Times to Today. Rev. ed. New York: Harper Collins, 2004. ISBN 978-0-06-063056-0. $18.99.
- MacPherson, Ryan C., ed. One Nation under God? Readings in American Religious History. An anthology for students enrolled in “History 460: Religion in American History” at Bethany Lutheran College. Spring 2010. (Available in the college bookstore.)
- Turabian, Kate L. A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. 7th ed. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2007. ISBN 0-226-82337-7. $17.00.
Additional Resources:
- Download the Syllabus (PDF)
- Evangelical Lutheran Synod Historical Society (service-learning project)
- Review Writing Standards
- Research Aids
- Contact the Instructor
