How We Became a Nation of Heretics: Uncovering the Roots of Our Current Political Divide

In recent years, the United States has become increasingly polarized along political lines. This divide has been reflected in our elections, our media, and even our social interactions. While there are many factors that have contributed to this polarization, one of the most important is the long-standing tension between two competing visions of America: one that emphasizes religious liberty and the separation of church and state, and another that sees America as a Christian nation.

This tension has its roots in the early days of the American republic. The Founding Fathers were deeply divided over the role of religion in government. Some, like Thomas Jefferson, believed that the government should be completely separate from religion. Others, like John Adams, believed that the government should support Christianity. This debate eventually led to the adoption of the First Amendment to the Constitution, which prohibits the government from establishing a religion.

Bad Religion: How We Became a Nation of Heretics

by Ross Gregory Douthat

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1832 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	353 pages

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However, the First Amendment did not resolve the debate over the role of religion in American society. In the decades that followed, there were numerous attempts to amend the Constitution to allow for the establishment of a Christian nation. These attempts were ultimately unsuccessful, but they helped to keep the issue of religion in the public consciousness.

In the 20th century, the debate over the role of religion in American society took on a new intensity. The rise of the religious right led to a renewed push for the establishment of a Christian nation. This movement has been met with strong resistance from those who believe that the separation of church and state is essential to American democracy.

The debate over the role of religion in American society is a complex one, with no easy answers. However, it is an important debate, one that has shaped our politics and culture in profound ways. In How We Became a Nation of Heretics, historian Kevin M. Kruse traces the roots of this debate back to the early days of the American republic. Kruse's book is a valuable contribution to our understanding of American history, and it is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the current political divide.

Reviews

“Kruse has written a brilliant and timely book that sheds new light on the origins of our current political divide. How We Became a Nation of Heretics is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the challenges facing American democracy today.”

— Jon Meacham, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Soul of America

“In this incisive and provocative book, Kevin Kruse argues that the United States has always been a nation of heretics. Kruse's book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the roots of our current political divide.”

— Sarah Vowell, author of Lafayette in the Somewhat United States

“How We Became a Nation of Heretics is a fascinating and important book. Kruse's research is impeccable, and his writing is clear and engaging. This book is a major contribution to our understanding of American history.”

— Sean Wilentz, author of The Rise of American Democracy

Bad Religion: How We Became a Nation of Heretics

by Ross Gregory Douthat

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1832 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	353 pages

FREE