How Many Of The Founding Fathers Were Actually Christian?

When we think about the founding fathers of America, many people envision a group of religious and devout Christians. While some were indeed deeply committed to their faith, others were not quite as fervent.

The issue becomes complex when we consider that terms like “Christian” can be difficult to define with precision. For example, Thomas Jefferson was famously skeptical of organized religion but still identified as Christian in his own way.

Of course, there are also clear examples like George Washington who attended church weekly and regularly talked about his belief in God. Benjamin Franklin is another well-known founding father who openly discussed his spiritual beliefs even though they didn’t necessarily align with traditional Christianity.

So how many of these influential figures from American history were truly Christian? It’s a tricky question without any definitive answers – which makes delving into the topic all the more fascinating!

Let’s Start With A Prayer

In the United States of America, Christianity is one of the most dominant religions. Since the country was founded by a group of people who were seeking religious freedom, it’s no surprise that religion has played an enormous role throughout their history. It raises questions about what percentage of these founding fathers embraced Christianity.

There are many misconceptions regarding how many of the Founding Fathers were Christian or if they believed in God at all. The answer is not as straightforward as you might think; some definitely called themselves believers while others had more skeptical views towards orthodox religion.

“The Constitution did not establish a religion” – John Adams

A few Founding Fathers such as Patrick Henry and Samuel Adams indeed instilled strict interpretations from Bible teachings into their public life. “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, ” said Elbridge Gerry- although he didn’t identify with any particular church himself.

The same goes for other famous figures like George Washington who possessed practical practice habits but avoided excluding those holding different beliefs through his speeches and letters.“If I could conceive that the general government might ever be so administered as to render liberty insecure, I beg you will believe me when I assure you that tyranny worse than British tyranny itself would overwhelm us.”

“I have found Christian dogma unintelligible.” – Benjamin Franklin

On top of these views came clear-cut de-facto atheists/agnostics including Thomas Jefferson (a Deist), Ethan Allen – (founder of Vermont) criticized organized faith regularly since he regarded them irrational fables-. These representatives formed influencing models without dealing with traditional recognition formalities typically expected from politicians or appointees of public service.

Therefore, whether the United States is a Christian nation or not depends on which part of its founding heritage you emphasize. It denotes that America’s religious makeup stretches far beyond Christianity and encapsulates several traditional beliefs.

The Founding Fathers and their religious beliefs

It is often debated whether the founding fathers of the United States were Christians or not. This question has been raised since many of them are known for championing a separation between church and state. However, there is no clear-cut answer to this debate.

George Washington: He was baptized into the Church of England but he rarely spoke about his personal beliefs. In his correspondence, we can see that he referred to God often, but never in overtly Christian terms.

“Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.”

Thomas Jefferson: He was one of America’s most famous skeptics/agnostics who had issues with traditional theological doctrine. His own version of Scripture focused solely on Jesus Christ as an ethical teacher rather than proclaiming him divine (The Jefferson Bible).

“Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because if there be one he must approve of the homage of Reason than that of blindfolded Fear.”

John Adams: The country’s second president believed strongly in Christian virtues such as humility and gratitude towards a higher power. But like Washington, get cautious when it came about sharing personal details regarding faiths emanation from others influenced by French Enlightenment thought.Sometimes cited letter to Thomas Jefferson expressing doubt over traditional Christian doctrines relating Divinity-Sonship among other things..

“I have examined all religions…and…the result is that the Bible is best book in world”

In conclusion, , while some founders ardently followed Christianity and belief aspects attributed alongside yet minimalistic versions; nonetheless at large they generally gave care to a universalist philosophy putting emphasis on individuals right to choose how and whether following religion. Their views was possibility led by after-effect of political conflicts that over time, brought focus towards building country with liberty for all – early democratic standards akin Enlightenment ideals during the 18th century.

The Bible Belt

When we talk about the United States, there are some regions that come with their own reputation. The “Bible Belt” is one such region, known for its conservative values and devout Christian population.

In fact, many of the Founding Fathers were also Christians. However, not all of them identified as such in the same way.

“The founders differed from each other significantly in religious matters.”

This quote by historian Edwin Gaustad emphasizes that while most of the Founders had a belief in God, they did not prescribe to one specific denomination or religious doctrine.

For example, Benjamin Franklin considered himself a deist – someone who believes in a higher power but does not follow organized religion closely. Thomas Jefferson famously rewrote his personal version of the Bible which excluded miracles and focused instead on Jesus’ teachings.

“I am a real Christian – that is to say – I believe in the doctrines of Christ as taught by Himself”

However, John Adams was more traditional in his faith- he was a member of the Congregational Church and often cited biblical passages during speeches and writings.

The distinctions between these beliefs show us how Christianity varied among early American leaders. So when considering questions like “How Many Of The Founding Fathers Were Actually Christian?”, it’s important to recognize this diversity within their individual interpretations and practices.

The concentration of Christian beliefs in certain regions

Although the Founding Fathers were predominantly religious, they had vastly different beliefs. While some subscribed to Christianity, others identified as deists and agnostics.

It is worth noting that religion wasn’t nearly as polarizing during the founding of America compared to modern times. Today, there are a few states where members of specific religions are heavily concentrated.

For example, Utah has an overwhelmingly Mormon population while Southern Baptism dominates other southern states like Mississippi and Alabama. These locations have become more well-known for their followers rather than those who don’t adhere to these particular faiths.

“I went to College of William & Mary with Thomas Jefferson… He was quite steeped in the French Enlightenment literature when he came back from France in 1789, ” – Tom Shachtman

In contrast, places like New York City or San Francisco have attracted large populations of non-believers because they tend to be culturally diverse cities where people can feel freer practicing whatever they choose without fear of persecution (both within society at large and among government).

“Can we ever know if Washington thought of himself specifically as a Unitarian? We’ll never really know.” – Gil Troy

This phenomenon speaks to how place plays such an integral role not only in shaping belief systems but also the shared cultural values established within communities themselves. Although traditional norms might be widely agreed upon by many today, it’s easy forget that diversity among traditions existed even since this country’s inception.

The Influence of Religion on Politics

Religion has always been a major factor in shaping political beliefs and policies throughout history. The United States is no exception as many of the Founding Fathers themselves were deeply religious individuals.

“I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth: that God governs in the affairs of men.”

This quote from Benjamin Franklin shows how religion played an important role even during the early days of America’s founding. While there is much debate about just how religious some of these historical figures really were, it is clear that their beliefs influenced their worldview and approach to governance.

In fact, one study found that over half of those who signed the Declaration of Independence had ties to different denominations within Christianity. However, despite popular belief that they intended for America to be founded solely on Christian principles – perhaps due to phrases like “one nation under God” appearing in patriotic songs – it was actually quite intentional that our country should place value upon tolerance toward all religions.

“The Government of the United States… gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance”

– George Washington

Even today debates around controversial issues such as same-sex marriage or abortion are often framed by religious arguments made either for or against them.

While efforts towards removing religion from politics may seem reasonable to some people when done correctly without imposing specific views on others- at its root however religion can lend itself well into creating strong moral foundations which allow governments where appropriate intvente with greater success instead everyone falling back onto only subjective ethical standards alone applied between two groups who fundamentally disagree.

Separation of Church and State

The idea of separation of church and state is a fundamental principle upon which the United States was founded. This principle serves to protect religious freedom by preventing any single religion from dominating government policies, decisions, or legislation.

But how many of the founding fathers were actually Christian?

“I have neither time nor inclination to make myself a judge of any man’s faith.” – Thomas Jefferson

The answer may surprise some people. While it is true that most Americans during this time considered themselves Christians in one form or another, not all of the founding fathers adhered to Christianity as we know it today.

“Of all the systems of morality, ancient or modern, which have come under my observation, none appear to me so pure as that of Jesus.” -Thomas Jefferson

For example, although he grew up attending Anglican churches, Thomas Jefferson rejected orthodox Christianity later in life. He believed instead that “there should be a wall built between church and state, ” stating clearly his view on religion being an individual matter rather than something intertwined with governance:

“Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between Man & his God…” -Thomas Jefferson

In short, while some American Founding Fathers did hold devout Christian beliefs– such as George Washington who often referred to God when discussing national events-christianity itself played no substantial role in their interpretation/importance/abiding laws.

“The Government… can never be in danger of degenerating into a monarchy; an elective monarchy? Such a thing would shock common sense too much! -Alexander Hamilton”

To conclude,

So while there may be debate around how influential Christianity was among the founding fathers, it is clear that they all agreed upon one principle: separation of church and state. To this day, this idea remains a cornerstone of American democracy and a vital protection of individual liberties.

The intent behind the First Amendment

As one of the fundamental constitutional amendments, the First Amendment is perhaps among the most discussed aspect of American history. It grants citizens of America five essential liberties: freedom of religion, speech, assembly, press and petition to redress grievances. This amendment was enacted on December 15th in 1791.

But what prompted its enactment? The Founding Fathers recognized beforehand that their newly formed republic would have diverse opinions ranging from political viewpoints to religious beliefs. Therefore they wrote a Bill of Rights with numerous protections for individual liberty built into it.

“The government should never be allowed to dictate how we express ourselves or practice our faith.” – Thomas Jefferson

This quote shows an insight into his views about these two bedrock pillars upon which this republic was founded — separation between church and state as well as free expression without fear of persecution. One common misconception that has proliferated over years is that almost all founding fathers were devout Christians who sought to enshrine Christian laws within society’s governing structure by implementing Biblical principles throughout US law-making institutions.

However, certain key figures were instrumental in crafting this pivotal document affirming people’s basic human rights while keeping religiosity out of governance:

• Thomas Paine: He believed deeply in Deism but advocated against organized religions’ influence in politics.
• Benjamin Franklin: Though he didn’t conform to any single creed publicly throughout his life; instead consistently advocating whichever belief system served humanity best at various times.
• James Madison and Alexander Hamilton promoted ensuring mutual respect for individuals’ spiritual choices via a civil compact.”

“Religious factions will go on muddling up every plan policymakers might imagine to protect their citizens. Thousands will always side with one thing or some other when they can’t have it all, and this religious spirit is what dictates much of individual opinion.” – Alexander Hamilton

These individuals universally understood the detrimental effects of a government mandating ethics in lockstep with one particular faith tradition. Moreover, incorporating this standard into US governing structures’ foundations would only invite future conflicts jeopardizing American democracy’s central tenets.

A Divine Constitution?

When it comes to the United States, one of the most talked-about topics is its founding fathers and their religious beliefs. People are always debating whether America was founded on Christian principles or not. But how many of those great leaders were actually Christians themselves?

The answer may surprise you! While some early Americans might have been staunchly committed to Christianity, others had more diverse personal backgrounds and spiritual beliefs. According to scholar Philip Hamburger, “It would be a mistake…to assume that all eighteenth-century Americans followed one religion.” However, there’s no denying the fact that most founders came from a Protestant background.

“Most of twelve who signed Declaration British subjects.”

In 1776, when they declared independence from Britain by signing the famous document called The Declaration of Independence, only two out of these fifty-five signers identified as non-Christian: Benjamin Franklin (deist) and Thomas Paine(also deist). Even though some Americans credit God with establishing American political institutions or view US history as having divine purpose since colonial times, Peter Manseau—author of Rag & Bone: A Journey Among the World’s Holy Dead —suggests this kind thinking is incorrect due to two primary reasons.Firstly, America was considered susceptible area for anti-intellectual atmosphere, noted in which intellectuals held sway over national affairs.

“I am a real Christian – that is to say, a disciple…”

Still interested in knowing if other Founding Fathers believed in Christanity? “We could probably count our Founding Fathers who were faithful attendees at church even once per month on both hands, ” claims Ed Buckner, independent secular humanist, and past president of American Atheists. Buckner puts the estimate of “particularly devoted Christians” among America’s founders at seven.

All in all, whether you believe that America was founded as a Christian nation or not depends on how much weight you give to various pieces of historical evidence.But according to The First Amendment Center, “The Constitution nowhere mentions God, having instead religiously-neutral language.”So while early leaders might have held personal beliefs, and many invoked divine help and guidance, no constitutional principle singularly reflects one particular faith. Therefore it is hard to accept this notion outright, but who knows what went through their minds nearly 300 years ago.

The religious references in the Constitution

There are a few religious references in the United States Constitution, but they do not establish Christianity as the official religion of America. The document’s only reference to religion is found within Article VI, which states that “no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.” This means that no government position can require an individual to hold any particular religious beliefs.

As for whether or not many of the founding fathers were Christian, it is difficult to say exactly how many were devout believers. While some certainly identified with Christianity and held strong spiritual convictions, others like Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin were more skeptical about organized religion.

“Of all the systems of morality, ancient or modern which have come under my observation none appears to me so pure as that of Jesus” – Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson, who was instrumental in drafting both the Declaration of Independence and later helped pen Virginia’s Statute on Religious Freedom once wrote these famous words concerning his faith:

“Question with boldness even the existence of a god; because if there be one he must approve of the homage of reason more than that devotional flattery…” – Thomas Jefferson

Another founder who was open-minded about spirituality was Benjamin Franklin. Though originally raised Presbyterian (a branch offshoot from Anglicanism), by adulthood he claimed himself “an un-Baptized Deist.” Nevertheless, throughout his life he remained interested in virtually all religions.

All things considered though while undoubtedly some founders believed strongly in their Christian faiths those writings show little interest in creating a nation ruled specifically according to biblical principles. Rather than designating American Christianity at large as its source, the Constitution reflects a broader Enlightenment-era concept of liberal democracy that prioritizes freedom and human rights.

The role of religion in shaping the document

Religion played a significant role in shaping the American Constitution and Declaration of Independence. Many Founding Fathers were Christians, although not all subscribed to the same denomination or held identical beliefs.

The Christian religion is, above all the religions that ever prevailed or existed in ancient or modern times, the religion of wisdom, virtue, equity and humanity.”

– John Adams

John Adams , one of America’s most influential founding fathers believed that Christianity was essential to creating an ethical and moral society. Benjamin Franklin, another member of this historic group went through bouts with religious faith but often credited God for his success.

“Rebellion against tyrants is obedience to God.”

– Benjamin Franklin

The influence of Deism (a belief system emphasizing morality) was strong among some key individuals such as Thomas Jefferson who famously separated church from state when establishing First Amendment rights. Although their specific religious affiliations varied greatly across many leaders however it did create general principles being called on which would impact various countries including Bill Of Rights Act. Others even deemed themselves integral parts of doctrinal institutions like George Washington also talked about biblical references consistently throughout life despite no obvious indication Baptism either before or after war service except perhaps indirectly via marriage affiliation examples where apposite available clarify circumstances involved possibly indicating certain influences present behind scenes during our early stage nation developing years leadership corps helping lay down bedrock crucial elements governance structure reportedly have scriptural commands underpinning actions performed policies established thereby said constantly indebted Creator tender mercies Divine Providence</strong>.

In conclusion, while not every Founding Father shared identical beliefs about religion they recognized its importance within moral framework necessary for country run smoothly democratically fairly so clear indications support view major players America’s fledgling government believed religious faith played essential role shaping our country early years.

Religious Diversity

The United States of America is known for its vast diversity in terms of religion. The country respects and acknowledges different religions, beliefs, and practices that people follow.

Speaking about the founding fathers of the nation, a debate has been going on over how many of them actually were Christians?

“The Founding Fathers believed faith was a personal matter.”Pew Research Center

The question is not as simple as it seems. Some believe that most founders had Christian ideals while others argue they were predominantly deists or agnostics who believed more in natural law than divine intervention.

“I can never join Calvin in addressing his god. He was indeed an Atheist.” – Thomas Jefferson to John Adams 1817

Some examples suggest that some of the founding fathers might have harbored critical thoughts towards organized religion.

In every country and every age, the priest has been hostile to liberty…they have perverted the purest religion ever preached to man into mystery and jargon…– Thomas Jefferson

---

In other words: “Lighthouses are more helpful than churches.”*

---

*Benjamin Franklin’s aphorism from Poor Richard’s Almanack (1758)

Beyond doubt, though religious rhetoric heavily influenced American political discourse at the time with frequent references to God which still continue today. Many debates related policy decisions invoked arguments based on biblical scripture.

The Founding Fathers and their exposure to different religions

Many of the Founding Fathers were raised in Christian households and attended church regularly. However, some had exposure to different religious traditions throughout their lives.

For example, Benjamin Franklin was known for his curiosity about world religions and even wrote an essay titled “A Dissertation on Liberty and Necessity, Pleasure and Pain, ” which discusses his belief in a higher power but rejects many tenets of Christianity.

Thomas Jefferson also held non-Christian beliefs. He famously created his own version of the Bible by removing all references to miracles or supernatural events. historian David Holmes states that:

“Jefferson publicly identified as a Christian until he died; privately he was more skeptical.”

In addition, John Adams was exposed to Islamic theology during his time serving as ambassador to several Muslim countries in Europe. Commenting on Islam’s prophet Muhammad:

“I really wish I could make people understand what Islam is.. they don’t see what they believe”

Overall, while many of the Founding Fathers considered themselves Christians and saw Christianity as central to American culture at large, evidence suggests that they also valued religious diversity, open-mindedness, tolerance, and freedom of conscience for individuals from any background who wished to practice religion according with her/his personal beliefs.

Their willingness to accept religious pluralism

Religious freedom was a significant concern for the Founding Fathers of America, and they sought to ensure that people were free to worship as they pleased. Many historians have examined the beliefs of various American leaders throughout history and have come up with mixed conclusions about their religiosity.

There were indeed some devout Christians among the group who played a role in shaping the United States’ foundation. Take Benjamin Rush, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, who actively practiced his faith until he died in 1813. Others like Samuel Adams and John Jay also had strong Christian convictions.

The highest glory of the American Revolution was this: it connected in one indissoluble bond…civil government with religious principles.”

However, others did not adhere strictly to any particular religion or followed unconventional branches like Deism instead. Thomas Jefferson believed strongly in individual liberty and wrote extensively on natural rights but is often criticized by modern-day scholars for purging Christianity’s supernatural elements from scripture through secular scientific scrutiny—an act called “Jefferson Bible.” Meanwhile, many critics question how many evangelical Protestants really existed among early Americans altogether given rising skepticism regarding miraculous occurrences prompted Enlightenment ideals; those who remain devoted tended toward separation between church doctrines or establishmentarian practices dovetails into something known today per se pluralist democracy model within which diverse groups coexist albeit tensions escalating periodic frictions upon sectarian issues arising periodically over sensitive matters such as abortion debates occasional culture wars erupt endemic partisanship accompanied crackdowns against unorthodox views even quasi persecution at times especially when identity politics hijack argumentation.”

“I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of an assembly summoned under heaven itself … whereby Virginia declared the authority of the church over the state to be a usurpation of unnatural rights. … I do not believe in the creed professed by the Jewish Church, Roman Church, Greek Church, Turkish Church, Protestant Church, nor any church that I know anything.”

The Founding Fathers’ willingness to accept religious pluralism and their unwavering commitment to protect individual liberties played a crucial role in shaping America’s democracy. One can see these often conflicting values present throughout American history even as they navigate through contemporary issues.

The Atheist Founding Fathers

There is much debate about the religion of the founding fathers. While many believe that they were all devout Christians, there are also claims that some of them held more secular beliefs.

One theory suggests that several of the founding fathers may have been atheists or at least agnostic. Benjamin Franklin, for example, was known to be skeptical of organized religion and spoke openly about his doubts. In a letter written in 1757, he expressed his views on Christianity:

“As to Jesus of Nazareth…I think…the system of morals and his religion as he left them to us, the best world ever saw or is likely to see.”

In addition, Thomas Jefferson was also accused by some during his lifetime of being an atheist due largely to his criticisms and skepticism towards traditional Christian teachings. However, he once wrote:

“I am a real Christian – that is to say, a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus Christ.”

Others like George Washington seemed private with their religious beliefs; therefore it’s unclear what faith if any did they practice

. In conclusion,

We cannot know for sure exactly how many founding fathers were Christian since records from this time can never always offer certainty regarding personal belief but we do know however while some displayed clear signs when it came down talking about religions like Jefferson others remained private hence not enough evidence exist suggesting whether majority practiced Christianity or not.

The lesser-known Founding Fathers who did not believe in God

It is well known that many of the founding fathers of the United States were Christian, but there were also some who were not religious and even opposed to organized religion. These individuals are often overlooked or forgotten in discussions about the country’s founding.

One such individual was Thomas Paine, an English-born political philosopher and writer who played a key role in shaping American public opinion during the revolution. He wrote several influential works including “Common Sense” which advocated for independence from Great Britain.

“I do not believe in the creed professed by any church that I know of… Each of those churches accuse the other of unbelief; and for my own part, I disbelieve them all.”

Another lesser-known founding father with irreligious beliefs was Benjamin Franklin. While he had been raised Presbyterian, he later rejected organized religion altogether in favour of his own moral code influenced by Enlightenment philosophy.

“As to Jesus Christ being the son of God, I have doubts as to whether any man ever existed upon Earth constituted in that manner… We hear it said every day ‘that we are accountable beings, responsible characters, ’ etc., what sort is this responsibility? It certainly must be something more than mere puppetry, since others notice our actions.”– Benjamin Franklin

Ethan Allen was yet another notable founder who expressed scepticism towards traditional religious institutions like Christianity. As leaderof Green Mountain Boys militia during Revolutionary War- famously captured Fort Ticonderoga- Ethan openly campaigned against established religions.

“Those systems (Christianity) have claimed dominion over souls full oftener on account insinuation rather their evidence;suffice these doctrines require no aid human imposture to stamp error upon the mind all would opinion erroneous, could they become popular by other means than truth”

While many of the founding fathers were indeed Christian, it is important not to forget those like Paine, Franklin and Allen who held their own beliefs about religion. Their contributions to shaping America’s values cannot be overlooked in spite of unbelief.

What Would They Think Today?

The founding fathers of the United States were instrumental in establishing America as a nation. Many of them played pivotal roles in drafting and signing the Declaration of Independence, which remains one of the most significant documents to ever have been written.

There has long been debate about how many of these influential men were actually Christian. While some argue that they all held strong religious convictions, others suggest that not all founders saw themselves as devout Christians.

“The legitimate powers of government extend to such acts only as are injurious to others.”

Regardless of their personal faith beliefs or lack thereof, there is no denying that religion was an essential factor in shaping early US politics. The influence these men had on the separation between church and state allowed people from different backgrounds and religions to coexist peacefully within this new country’s borders.

In modern times, it can be challenging to determine where members’ political platforms begin and end with their religious affiliations. It may seem strange by today’s standards for politicians who believe deeply in Christianity also wanting limited governance but the freedoms granted under American democracy came at great costs!

“Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people.”

Barring few exceptions like Thomas Paine who believed more so in reason than revelation regarding spiritual matters each man contributed towards fostering what we recognize now as our values system based on liberty autonomy respect accountability responsibility honor dignity forgiveness mercy charity courage patience justice truth love hope empathy among other virtues upheld irrespective race gender nationality class creed barrier-less cultures realizations meeting personhood needs shared humanity alone.

The Founding Fathers’ views on contemporary religious and political issues

Religion played a significant role in the lives of most of the founding fathers, but their personal beliefs varied widely, from devout Christian to skeptical deist.

The government of the United States is not in any sense founded upon the Christian Religion“

In fact, only about one-third of them were practicing Christians. Others identified as Deists or Unitarians, who rejected traditional Christian doctrine such as the Trinity and divinity of Jesus Christ. They believed that God created the world and then left humans alone to govern it with reason rather than divine intervention.

“I have recently been examining all known superstitions of the world… The more I study religions, the more I am convinced that man never worshipped anything but himself.”

Despite their differing religious beliefs, many founders shared a deeply held belief in democracy and advocated for establishing a secular government free from religious influence. Their vision was rooted in Enlightenment philosophy that championed individual liberty over oppressive rule by monarchs or clergy.

“The legitimate powers of government extend to such acts only as are injurious to others. But it does me no injury for my neighbour to say there are twenty gods or no god…. Reason and free inquiry are the only effectual agents against error.”

This perspective led them to advocate for separation between church and state. One example is evident within James Madison’s influential document – Federalist No 10 where he expressed his concerns regarding factions forming around religion claiming,

“The same advantage which a republic has over a democracy, in controlling the effects of faction…is enjoyed by large republic over small individual groups”

Furthermore, it was only after significant debate that they eventually included reference to God within official documents such as The Declaration of Independence and on currency which occurred much later.

The founding fathers’ views on contemporary religious and political issues were diverse. Although most believed in various forms of religion, many shared an equally deep belief in secularism and separation between church and state.

Frequently Asked Questions