There are many events in history that remain controversial far after there happening. But most revolves around the causes and effects. In this case, though, the controversy is over its existence at all.

The Great Awakening was a period of religious revival that swept throughout the colonies between 1730 and 1750. It was ignited during a period of spiritual malaise in the aftermath of imperial wars, and during the upending of religion during the Enlightenment.

Or…

the “Great” Awakening was an amalgamation of a few small-scale revivals in Connecticut and New Jersey that were connected by force by those who would most benefit. It was merely invented by a few preachers trying to sow chaos and create a new religious order.

Needless to say, the notes do not go into the details of this fight for the truth, so join me to try to fill in those missing pages…

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Music

Intro: Fractured Timeline - Sémø

Outro: Carried Away - Honeysuckle

Sources

Inventing the “Great” Awakening - Frank Lambert

Scotland and Its First American Colony - Ned C. Landsman

Before the Revolution: America’s Ancient Pasts - Daniel K. Richter

American Colonies - Alan Taylor

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