How Did The Second Great Awakening Influence American Society

The Second Great Awakening was a religious revival that began in the late 18th century and continued until the middle of the 19th century. It occurred mostly in the United States but spread to other countries as well. It was best known for its large camp meetings that led a remarkable number of people to convert to Christianity. This was done through an enthusiastic style of preaching and audience participation. The Second Great Awakening included roles for white women and African Americans in the Christian religion. It also greatly influenced American society by inspiring other reform movements.

In the South, the Second Great Awakening brought the message of spiritual equality. People believed in the deliverance of slavery and there became

At the time, women making speeches to mixed audiences was considered radical. Clergymen condemned Angela and Sarah Grimke for their actions. Soon, in addition to working for the abolitionist movement, the sisters advocated for women’s rights. Then, the Feminist Movement began. At a convention in Seneca Falls, the “Declaration of Sentiments” was adopted. This declaration called for a range of women’s rights, including the right to equal education, equal treatment under the law, and the right to vote. Approximately 68 women and 32 men signed the Declaration of Sentiments. During this time period, The American Equal Rights Association (AERA) was

It also revived the emotional side of religion which led to Transcendentalism. This was a philosophical and literary movement in response to rationalism and the enlightenment. It was centered around Ralph Waldo Emerson. Transcendentalists were critics of own society. They thought that society corrupted the purity of an individual. The Transcendentalists' dissatisfaction with their society was focused on policies and actions of the United States government. The Transcendentalists opposed the treatment of Native Americans, the war with Mexico, and the continuing and expanding practice of slavery. Transcendentalists urged that each person find, in Emerson's words, “an original relation to the universe” Transcendentalists the best way to experience “intuitive insights” was to return to God’s direct creation: nature. They also believed in independent thought, civil disobedience, and