The Great Awakening and Key Figures

Flashcards covering the Great Awakening, key figures, mercantilism, and their impacts on American society.

Who was George Whitefield?

An English minister and itinerant preacher known for his dramatic sermons and fundraising tours in the colonies during the Great Awakening.

What characterized the sermons of George Whitefield?

They were emotional, theatrical performances aimed at turning people back to spiritual life.

What was the Great Awakening?

A religious revival in the 1730s and 1740s that emphasized fervent expressions of religious feelings and brought diverse groups together.

What was a major positive effect of mercantilism on the American colonies?

New England shipbuilding prospered.

What was a negative effect of mercantilism on the American colonies?

Colonial manufacturing was severely limited, leading to higher prices for imported goods.

What is salutary neglect?

A period from 1607-1763 when Britain did not strictly enforce laws in the colonies, allowing them to flourish independently.

Who was Jonathan Edwards?

A Congregational minister known for his impactful sermons, particularly 'Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God,' emphasizing dependence on God's grace.

What change did the Great Awakening bring to American religious life?

It undermined the authority of established churches and promoted religious toleration.

What was the significance of the Albany Plan of Union proposed by Benjamin Franklin?

It was an early vision for a colonial government to address common problems, though it was ultimately rejected.

How did the Great Awakening affect perceptions of social hierarchy?

It de-emphasized authority and social hierarchies, fostering a sense of unity among Americans.