The role of religion in the formation of American national identity (XVII – early XX century)

Abstract

Introduction. In the XXI century, the concept of national identity has acquired increasing significance due to intensifying globalization processes. The issue of the influence of religion − as the spiritual and ideological foundation of society − on the formation of national identity is particularly ambiguous in the United States, as the country is originally characterized by confessional pluralism.

Materials and methods. The article attempts to determine the role of religion in shaping American national identity from the XVII to the early XX century. The study relies on sources such as sermons, religious writings, journalistic materials, and periodical press. A special group of sources comprises works of XIX century historical fiction, which are examined as instruments for shaping mass perception and doctrinal justification of the national idea.

Analysis. Throughout its history, the United States has hosted a wide variety of religious doctrines. There was no dominant religious doctrine, and most religious organizations were marked by tolerance and operated on a voluntary basis. Gradually, the control of churches over the spiritual and moral state of society weakened. In the XVIII and XIX centuries, several waves of the Great revival swept across North America, emerging as a consequence of spiritual searches within American society. Simultaneously, through the process of myth-making centered on the events of the American Revolution − the first major nationwide victory − American values, ideals, and the national idea underwent sacralization in the collective consciousness.

Results. Based on the findings of this study, we can conclude that in the United States, national identity was shaped not by a dominant religious doctrine but by numerous religious beliefs. By aligning with the American national value system, these beliefs provided it with spiritual and ideological justification, ultimately leading to the emergence of civil religion in the United States.