Many people came from England to the Americas in order to find religious freedom. Many of these early colonists were devout Christians, but over time church ministers felt that people were being drawn away from religion. Economic and political changes developed in the colonies.
In the early 1700's, some ministers wanted to make a change and bring a spark to people’s religious lives. This period of religious revival, or renewal, was called the First Great Awakening. During this time, ministers traveled from town to town giving passionate and fiery sermons to stir people's emotions and make them reconnect with and recommit to God. Some people were so overcome emotionally by the fiery preachers of the First Great Awakening that they fainted during sermons. Some of the most passionate preachers during this time warned their listeners that they would not have salvation if they did not strengthen their faith in God. Some speeches warned followers to accept Christ's teachings or they would be banished to hell as "non-believers." It worked! Many colonists strengthened their religious faith. They had a closer connection with God and were stronger believers than before. Religious culture changed in the colonies.
The First Great Awakening had a significant impact. The movement is considered the first national event shared by all the colonies. It is credited with developing a common identity among people swept up by its power. The changes it produced created divisions among religious people, but it led to more religious tolerance and unity within the colonies. One reason is because religious diversity increased. New churches by the hundreds appeared after splitting from the established churches of the time. No one church was in control anymore. The desire to worship freely was strong.