Foundations of Protestantism in America and The Colonial Period
Chapter from the book: Akıncı, A. (ed.) 2025. Academic Research and Evaluations in Political Science.

Üstün Yüksel

Synopsis

This study attempts to explain how Protestantism, a sect of Christianity, has played a central role in the colonial period of the United States of America (USA), permeating society and shaping the USA in religious terms. In order to understand the current realities and role of religion (Christianity in general, and Protestantism in particular) in the state and society in America more comprehensively and deeply, it is extremely important to analyze the historical background of America, starting with the colonial period. In this context, from the beginning of the first colony in America (1607), the desire for religious freedom was a powerful motivator for Puritans fleeing persecution and disenfranchisement in England. Puritans, generally Protestants, have had an influence on the American state and nation in political, social, cultural and almost every field since the colonial period of America. The early Puritan settlers, in particular, sought to implement a form of government based on biblical interpretation in colonial governance. This form of government was inspired by Puritan leader John Winthrop's sermon A Model of Christian Charity, which he gave while migrating to Massachusetts with a group of Puritans on the Arbella in 1630. ince then, Puritan principles have led the American nation in many ways, from state administration to socio-cultural areas, leaving many legacies. These legacies, based on the Bible and Puritan principles, have become ingrained in the modern character of the United States. Therefore, Christianity (specifically Protestantism) is the primary object of the American state and nation. The religious motivation and identity of the United States, inspired by the Puritans, has remained unchanged to this day. Today, Christianity (specifically Protestantism) is an integral part of the United States and has a great influence on the American nation. As a result, Puritans and Protestants played a major role in turning America into a devout Christian (especially Protestant) nation. As a result, Protestantism has a dominant status in the United States.

How to cite this book

Yüksel, Ü. (2025). Foundations of Protestantism in America and The Colonial Period. In: Akıncı, A. (ed.), Academic Research and Evaluations in Political Science. Özgür Publications. DOI: https://doi.org/10.58830/ozgur.pub767.c3153

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Published

June 26, 2025

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