'One Nation Under God' or 'Nation Under One God'?At its inception, America was as contentious over religion as it is today; a fact less surprising considering the 'Age of Revolution' stood on the shoulders of reformation, enlightenment, and puritan separatism. Whatever attitudes persist now about religious freedom it must be acknowledged that, from the outset, the individual's declaration of faith played an integral part in Constitutional development. From John Adams' Episcopalian affinities to Jefferson's anti-dogmatic attitudes, this books explores the faith behind the men who were the founding fathers and the successors of their legacy.
Without overdoing the theology involved, Meacham strictly observes the facts rather than hint at a faith-forged national identity or speculate about religious influence on party politics. No president is disavowed or shown inordinate praise despite several lengthy sections concering the tenures of Washington, Jackson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt. Though a cultural diaspora is acknowledged, rarely does a specific doctrine, denomination, or 'movement' contribute to any one presidential policy. Presidents tend toward coalition beliefs more often than not. Soft on criticism, the author is equally omissive of any 'alternative' beliefs; essentially eliminating the possibility of a head of state ever being heretical or apostate.
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