2.7 Colonial Society and Culture Flashcards

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to pluralism, the First Great Awakening, and colonial society and culture based on lecture notes.

Pluralism

The idea of diversity within the colonies, encompassing various races, ethnic groups, and nationalities.

African American Population (by 1775)

Comprised up to 20 percent of the American colonial population.

Reverend Jonathan Edwards

A key preacher of the First Great Awakening, famous for his sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God."

George Whitefield

A prominent preacher who helped spread the First Great Awakening throughout the colonies, drawing immense crowds.

First Great Awakening

A religious revival movement that swept the colonies in the 1730s and 1740s, stressing personal religious experience, human sinfulness, and contributing to religious tolerance and colonial unity.

"Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God"

A powerful sermon by Reverend Jonathan Edwards during the First Great Awakening, depicting an angry God and emphasizing the need for deep repentance.

Colonial Society (mid-18th Century)

Evolved into a diverse society of 1.5 million people with a distinct culture, attracting various ethnic groups, though many Africans were forcibly imported.

Religious Toleration in Colonies

Widespread to varying degrees, with Pennsylvania being notable for its high level of tolerance.

Self-Government (Colonial)

A long-standing tradition in the colonies, exemplified by institutions such as the House of Burgesses and New England town meetings.

Salutary Neglect

A British policy where the crown loosely enforced laws in the colonies, often due to distance or preoccupation, but would intervene for specific interests.

Colonial Diversity

The colonies were more ethnically and religiously diverse than England itself.

Unifying Impact of First Great Awakening

Considered the first unifying experience in the colonies, fostering religious tolerance and stressing more equality between ministers and laypeople, contributing to a distinct American viewpoint.

Western Frontier Conflict

Caused by the continued growth of the western frontier, leading to clashes between settlers and American Indians.

Economic Opportunities (Colonies)

A key driver for free immigrants seeking better financial prospects in the colonies.