9781422274163

In the eighteenth, nineteenth, and twentieth centuries, most Americans were Christians. Because of this, Christian religious displays and signs in public buildings were common, and political leaders often referred to their personal beliefs when running for office. No particular Christian denomination was designated as an official national religion, but by being in the majority Christians had a lot of influence over government and American society. Schools and government offices closed for religious

A famous image of George Washington praying at Valley Forge. Although he was a Christian, as a public leader Washington encouraged tolerance and respect of all religions.

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Contemporary Issues: Religious Freedom