Overview

Colonial America experienced dynamic cultural and intellectual growth influenced by European traditions, indigenous knowledge, and religious revival. As education spread and Enlightenment ideas took hold, a distinctly American identity began to form through literature, theology, and political theory.

Key Themes and Events

• Puritanism and Religious Foundations: In New England, Puritans emphasized education, moral discipline, and communal values. Their beliefs shaped early laws, schools, and town governance.
• Religious Pluralism and Tolerance: Colonies like Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Maryland promoted religious diversity. Conflicts over religious uniformity helped define early ideas about freedom of conscience.
• The Great Awakening (1730s–1740s): A widespread religious revival that emphasized personal salvation, emotional preaching, and egalitarian spirituality. Key figures included Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield.
• Enlightenment Influence: Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke influenced colonial intellectuals. Ideas about reason, liberty, and natural rights shaped the political thought of leaders like Jefferson and Franklin.
• Education and Literacy: Literacy rates in the colonies were among the highest in the world. Institutions like Harvard (1636) and Yale (1701) were founded to train clergy and civic leaders.
• Colonial Literature and Print Culture: Pamphlets, almanacs, and newspapers flourished. Authors like Thomas Paine (*Common Sense*) helped unify colonial sentiment toward revolution.

Quick Tip

Know how Enlightenment and religious revival shaped early American values. Expect CLEP questions about the Great Awakening, Enlightenment philosophy, and the relationship between religion, education, and politics.