How did the Great Awakening alter religious tolerance?

The Great Awakening increased religious tolerance by diversifying religious beliefs and promoting religious freedom.

The Great Awakening, a series of religious revivals that swept through the American colonies in the 18th century, had a profound impact on religious tolerance. It led to a diversification of religious beliefs and practices, which in turn fostered a greater acceptance of different faiths. Prior to the Great Awakening, the religious landscape in the colonies was largely dominated by a few established churches. However, the revivals brought about a proliferation of new denominations, including Baptists, Methodists, and Presbyterians, among others. This diversification challenged the hegemony of the established churches and created a more pluralistic religious environment.

Moreover, the Great Awakening promoted the idea of religious freedom. The revivals were characterised by emotional, enthusiastic preaching that emphasised a personal relationship with God over adherence to church doctrine. This focus on individual religious experience undermined the authority of the established churches and their ministers, and encouraged people to seek out their own paths to salvation. As a result, the Great Awakening fostered a spirit of religious independence and freedom of thought that was conducive to greater religious tolerance.

The Great Awakening also had a democratising effect on religion. The revivals were open to everyone, regardless of their social status or gender. This inclusivity broke down social barriers and created a sense of equality among believers. It also challenged the notion that religious authority was the exclusive preserve of a privileged few, further promoting religious tolerance.

In addition, the Great Awakening led to the creation of new institutions that promoted religious tolerance. Many of the new denominations established their own schools and colleges, which provided alternative sources of religious education and further diversified the religious landscape. These institutions played a crucial role in promoting religious tolerance by providing a platform for the exchange of ideas and fostering a culture of debate and discussion.

In conclusion, the Great Awakening had a profound impact on religious tolerance in the American colonies. By diversifying religious beliefs, promoting religious freedom, democratising religion, and creating new institutions, it fostered a more pluralistic and tolerant religious environment.