The Genevan Reformation and the American Founding

by David W. Hall

In this provocative study, David W. Hall argues that Calvinism had a greater influence on America's founders than contemporary scholars, and perhaps even the founders themselves, have understood. Calvinism's insistence that human rulers tend to err played a significant role in the founders' prescription of limited government and fed the distinctly American philosophy in which political freedom for citizens is held as the highest value. Hall's timely work countervails many scholars' doubt in the intellectual efficacy of religion by showing that religious teachings have led to such progressive ideals as American democracy and freedom.

Genres: American History

508 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Lee Button · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not an easy read if you like fast-paced and cursory information. (I paced myself over 12 months) But if you pick it up you will learn how the founding of America was based on Calvinistic theology. Dr. Hall starts with the Reformation, particularly in the city of Geneva when John Calvin led the community. He traces the basic tenets of what is called Calvinism (it was not systematized until after Calvin's death) as it spread to England, more dramatically to Scotland and eventually the colonies. The powerful effects of this theology are not commonly discussed but clearly available.
4 of our first five Presidents were considering rebuilding Calvin's College from Geneva in Arlington VA. Not because of his theology but because of how his theology affected political life.
From Princeton College, a bastion of Reformation Theology, more than a hundred colonial-period graduates entered public service as judges, senators, congressmen and one president.
At the time of the American War of Secession (Independence), more Presbyterian pastors and church leaders were involved in political culture than any other religious group.
Hall demonstrates the connection our Founding Documents have with the doctrines of the Reformation.
The thousands of citations are painstakingly noted. Regardless of one's position on Calvinism, this book will make a difference in how you view the philosophy and reasoning of the men who founded our country. Reformation theology and its applications permeated 17th and 18th-century American history.