Second Great Awakening Apush Definition

The Second Great Awakening: A Period of Religious and Social Transformation in APUSH

The Second Great Awakening, a period of religious revivalism in the United States that swept through the nation from the 1790s to the 1840s, significantly impacted American society and culture. More than just a religious phenomenon, it fueled social reform movements, shaped political ideologies, and left an enduring legacy on American identity. This article delves into the key aspects of the Second Great Awakening, providing a comprehensive overview for APUSH students and anyone interested in understanding this pivotal era in American history.

Understanding the Context: Setting the Stage for Revival

Before diving into the specifics of the Second Great Awakening, it's crucial to understand the socio-cultural backdrop against which it unfolded. The late 18th and early 19th centuries witnessed profound changes in American society. The nation, still young and grappling with its identity, was experiencing rapid westward expansion, urbanization, and industrialization. These transformations brought about both opportunities and anxieties.

• Westward Expansion: The relentless push westward created new frontiers, leading to diverse populations settling in different regions and fostering a sense of both possibility and isolation. This geographic dispersion required a renewed sense of community and shared values, a need often filled by religious revivalism.

• Urbanization and Industrialization: The growth of cities and factories led to social stratification and a breakdown of traditional social structures. This created a sense of alienation and moral uncertainty for many, fueling a yearning for spiritual meaning and communal belonging.

• Enlightenment Influence: The Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and individualism, while initially challenging established religious authorities, paradoxically created fertile ground for a more personal and emotional approach to faith. People began seeking a deeper, more experiential connection with God, rather than simply adhering to established doctrines.

• The First Great Awakening's Legacy: The earlier First Great Awakening (1730s-1740s), while different in its methods, had established a precedent for emotional and participatory religious experiences. The Second Great Awakening built upon this legacy, adapting its techniques to the changing social landscape.

Key Characteristics of the Second Great Awakening

The Second Great Awakening differed from its predecessor in several key aspects:

• Emphasis on Emotionalism: Unlike the more intellectual approach of the Enlightenment, the Second Great Awakening prioritized emotional engagement with faith. Revival meetings often featured fervent preaching, emotional testimonials, and dramatic conversions. The goal was to create a powerful, deeply felt experience of spiritual rebirth.

• Camp Meetings and Revivals: Large-scale camp meetings, sometimes lasting for days or weeks, became a defining characteristic of this period. These gatherings offered a unique blend of religious fervor, community building, and social interaction. They provided a powerful sense of collective identity for participants.

• Democratic and Egalitarian Nature: Unlike the more hierarchical structure of established churches, the Second Great Awakening embraced a more democratic and egalitarian approach to faith. This made it accessible to a wider range of people, including women, African Americans (though often in segregated contexts), and working-class individuals who felt excluded from mainstream religious institutions.

• Rise of New Denominations: The Second Great Awakening gave rise to several new denominations, such as the Methodists and Baptists, that emphasized personal piety, missionary work, and social reform. These denominations gained immense popularity due to their accessibility and focus on individual spiritual experience.

• Focus on Social Reform: The religious fervor of the Second Great Awakening fueled a wave of social reform movements. The newfound sense of moral responsibility led many to tackle social ills such as slavery, temperance, and women's rights. This connection between religious belief and social action is a defining feature of the era.

Key Figures and Movements

Several prominent figures and movements played crucial roles in shaping the Second Great Awakening:

• Charles Finney: A lawyer-turned-preacher, Finney is considered one of the most influential figures of the Second Great Awakening. His emphasis on personal conversion and social reform deeply impacted the movement. His use of "anxious benches" and his focus on individual responsibility played a crucial role in sparking conversions.

• Lyman Beecher: A prominent Congregationalist minister, Beecher advocated for moral reform and played a significant role in shaping the temperance movement. His strong views on social issues, particularly regarding alcohol, deeply influenced the religious landscape of the time.

• The Burned-Over District: This region in Upstate New York became a hotbed of religious activity during the Second Great Awakening, characterized by intense religious fervor and numerous conversions. The sheer intensity of religious activity gave it this memorable name, highlighting the impact of the revivals.

• Millennialism: The belief in the imminent second coming of Christ permeated much of the religious fervor of the Second Great Awakening. This belief fueled both fervent religious practices and a desire for moral reform, creating a sense of urgency in addressing societal problems.

• Abolitionism: The Second Great Awakening played a significant role in the burgeoning abolitionist movement. Many religious leaders and followers viewed slavery as a moral abomination, and their faith motivated them to fight for its abolition.

The Second Great Awakening and Social Reform

The Second Great Awakening was deeply intertwined with several pivotal social reform movements:

• Temperance Movement: Fueled by religious conviction and concerns about the social and moral consequences of alcohol consumption, the temperance movement sought to curb alcohol abuse. It gained considerable momentum during this era, with religious leaders playing a crucial role in advocating for abstinence.

• Abolitionism: Religious leaders and followers played a prominent role in the fight against slavery. Many saw slavery as a violation of Christian principles, and their faith inspired them to actively work towards emancipation.

• Women's Rights Movement: The increased participation of women in religious activities during the Second Great Awakening helped to raise their awareness of their subordinate social position. This contributed to the growing momentum of the women's rights movement in the coming decades.

The Second Great Awakening's Impact on American Culture and Politics

The Second Great Awakening had a profound and lasting impact on American culture and politics:

• Transcendentalism: The emphasis on individualism and emotional experience in the Second Great Awakening influenced the development of Transcendentalism, a philosophical and literary movement that celebrated individual intuition and the inherent goodness of humanity.

• Reform Movements: The religious fervor of the Second Great Awakening provided a moral and social impetus for a range of reform movements addressing issues such as education, prison reform, and mental health care.

• Political Participation: The increased participation of ordinary people in religious life led to greater political engagement and a sense of civic responsibility. This contributed to the growth of participatory democracy in the United States.

The Second Great Awakening and its Legacy

The Second Great Awakening was not without its complexities and contradictions. While it fostered social reform and promoted a sense of community, it also contributed to the strengthening of racial divisions and the perpetuation of certain social inequalities. However, its impact on American culture and society remains undeniable.

• Religious Diversity: The Second Great Awakening increased religious diversity in the United States, leading to a more pluralistic religious landscape.

• Social Reform: It provided the moral and social impetus for numerous reform movements that addressed some of the most pressing social problems of the time.

• American Identity: The Second Great Awakening contributed significantly to the development of a distinct American identity, emphasizing piety, community, and social responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What was the main difference between the First and Second Great Awakenings?

A: While both emphasized religious revival, the Second Great Awakening was characterized by a greater emphasis on emotionalism, large-scale camp meetings, and a more direct engagement with social reform. The First Great Awakening had a more intellectual bent and focused less on social change.

Q: How did the Second Great Awakening contribute to the abolitionist movement?

A: Many religious leaders and followers saw slavery as a moral evil, contradicting their Christian beliefs. This religious conviction fueled their involvement in the abolitionist movement, with many actively working toward the end of slavery.

Q: What is the "Burned-Over District"?

A: This region in Upstate New York was known for its intense religious activity during the Second Great Awakening, characterized by numerous revivals and conversions. The fervent religious zeal earned it the nickname "Burned-Over District."

Q: How did the Second Great Awakening influence American politics?

A: The increased participation of ordinary people in religious life led to greater political engagement. The emphasis on moral responsibility also shaped political discourse and influenced the development of various political movements.

Conclusion: A Lasting Impact

The Second Great Awakening stands as a pivotal moment in American history. More than simply a religious phenomenon, it was a transformative period that shaped religious beliefs, social reform movements, and the very fabric of American society. Its emphasis on emotional engagement, social responsibility, and democratic ideals left an enduring legacy that continues to influence American culture and politics today. Understanding its complexities and its lasting impact is crucial for grasping the development of the United States as a nation. Further research into the specific denominations, figures, and social movements that arose during this time will provide a deeper appreciation for its impact on the American narrative.