Ttc - Prof. Patrick N Allitt - American Religious History [work] Jun 2026

Crucially, Allitt draws the line from religious independence to political independence. He explains how sermons became political pamphlets and how the language of "slavery to sin" was easily converted into "slavery to the Crown." He also covers the often-ignored story of American Catholicism in Maryland and the unique legacy of William Penn’s "Holy Experiment" in Pennsylvania.

By taking this course, learners will gain:

In "American Religious History," Prof. Allitt takes learners on a captivating journey through the evolution of religion in America, spanning over four centuries. The course consists of 12 engaging lectures, each approximately 30 minutes long, allowing students to absorb and reflect on the material at their own pace. Through Allitt's masterful storytelling and insightful analysis, students gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic interplay between faith, culture, and politics that has shaped American society.

Focused on the "Social Gospel," using Christian ethics to reform labor laws, poverty, and civil rights. TTC - Prof. Patrick N Allitt - American Religious History

The introduction of Darwinian evolution and higher biblical criticism created a deep rift within American Protestantism. Modernists sought to adapt Christian theology to integrate scientific discoveries. Fundamentalists dug in, insisting on the literal truth of scripture. Allitt uses the famous as a vivid case study of this cultural flashpoint. The Changing Face of America

Seeking perfection on Earth.

Founded by Joseph Smith.

The course comes with a PDF guide featuring a detailed timeline, bibliography, and recommended reading, making it a valuable resource for independent study Audible.

: Investigates the impact of faith on everyday life, including intellectual trends, economic concerns, and social movements like the Civil Rights era.

Allitt begins with the radical experiment of the Puritans in New England. He unpacks John Winthrop’s vision of a "City upon a Hill" and details how internal dissenters like Roger Williams and Anne Hutchinson laid the early, accidental groundwork for religious liberty. The course contrasts these Calvinist strongholds with the peaceful, pluralistic Quaker experiment in Pennsylvania. 2. The Great Awakenings Crucially, Allitt draws the line from religious independence

Prof. Patrick N. Allitt’s is far more than a list of dates and denominations. It is a masterclass in understanding the heart of a nation. By explaining how the absence of a state church created a fiercely competitive and innovative spiritual marketplace, Allitt provides the single best explanation for why America, against all expectations, continues to be a profoundly religious country.

For those whose interest is sparked by the course, Prof. Allitt has also authored several key academic texts. These include (1997), the primary source reader Major Problems in American Religious History (2000), and his excellent post-war survey, Religion in America since 1945: A History (2003).

In The Teaching Company’s "American Religious History" course, Professor Patrick N. Allitt surveys the impact of faith on American society from the colonial era to the late 20th century. The lectures, often delivered from a distinct "outsider" perspective, examine religion's role in American intellectual and political life, including the influence of mass immigration and the rise of 19th-century scientific challenges. For more details, visit Audible . The Great Courses: American Religious History Allitt takes learners on a captivating journey through