Description
Book SynopsisMoving beyond the realm of traditional "church history," this book offers a survey of American religion since World War II. Identifying the major trends and telling moments within major denominations, it asks how these religious groups have shaped, and been shaped by, some of the important and divisive issues and events of the last half century.
Trade ReviewAllitt presents the main events, trends, and movements within the religious world as well as the connection between religion and the major issues in national life at the time... As a general survey, this one is accurate and readable enough to interest informed readers at many levels. Library Journal Allitt has written a very good book about religion in America over the past half century... Allitt reminds his readers just how extraordinary our shared experience has been, and how distressful our diversity. America Magazine Patrick Allitt of Emory University has written a very impressive book,Religion in America Since 1945: A History. What has been said about America must also be said about religion in America: it is so vast and various that almost anything said about it is amply supported by the evidence. Unlike too many historians, Allitt understands that the subject of America and the subject of religion in America are not two subjects but one. First Things speaks with authority and verve...thoughful and nuanced...essential reading for all concerned with American religion -- James Carroll American Catholic Studies Allitt's book is a splendidly accessible narrative...His historical narrative is remarkably comprehensive, urbane and fair-minded. -- David Hempton Times Literary Supplement A lucid, compelling narrative of recent U.S. religious history...Scholars, teachers and students of religion in contemporary America are the fortunate beneficiaries of his noteworthy achievement. -- William Vance Trollinger Journal of Church and State This volume, manageable in size and engagingly written, is accessible to the general as well as the specialist reader and will surely find extensive textbook use. -- Debra Higgs Strickland Journal of Religion Allitt has written a lucid and accessible survey. Allitt also deserves kudos for devoting considerable space not only to popular religious culture but also to theological developments. -- Eugene McCarraher, Villanova University Journal of American History Allitt's work is impressive, providing a learned and engaging narrative of a critical epoch in American religious history. Religious Studies Review An engaging and easy-to-read text. -- Howell Williams H-Net Reviews
Table of ContentsPreface 1. Anxious Victory: 1945-1952 2. Religion and Materialism: 1950-1970 3. Religion, Respect, and Social Change: 1955-1968 4. New Frontiers and Old Boundaries: 1960-1969 5. Shaking the Foundations: 1963-1972 6. Alternative Religious Worlds: 1967-1982 7. Evangelicals and Politics: 1976-1990 8. The Christian Quest for Justice and Wisdom: 1980-1995 9. Profits, Profligates, and Prophets: 1987-1995 10. The New World Order: 1989-1999 11. Fears, Threats, and Promises: 1990-2000 12. The New Millennium: 2001 Notes Bibliographic Essay Index
