From: Anonymous Two
Date: 3/28/00
Time: 4:50:53 AM
Remote Name: 155.247.229.171
Why is the period between 1830-1860 known as an era of reform? Were the reforms intended to increase or decrease personal freedom? The era between 1830-1860 was experiencing a rapid increase in economic development which created tension among many Americans. American workers/employees experienced immoral working conditions; influenced their families with immoral behavior. Committed Chrisitians simed to purify American society. Christianity provided a stronger sense of identity and purpose for Americans. Also, Christianity provided moral guidance and direction. Christianity inspired religious reform imposed new order that threatened to undermine established institutions such as abolitionism; challenged the social and eco- nomic rationalization of slavery in southern states. Religious reformers attacked collective social sins such as liquor, war and governmental practices. Reformers imposed cultural unity and increased communi- ty spirit by inspiring higher social goals. Religious reformers encouraged reform of American morals and aimed to modify American attitudes and institutions; provided social needs by addressing community goals and concerns. Religion provided an emotional outlet for people seeking relief for the social transformation of economic development. Establishment and formation of societies and voluntary associations discouraged and curbed irreligious activities, such as gambling, on the sabbath day. Religious reformers "developed ways to help indi- viduals to confront world economic growth and social mobility without losing cultural and moral bearings." The reforms were not intended to increase nor decrease personal freedon, howerever, reforms during this period were actions and re- actions intended to address the necessity for societal stability and means to ensure the future growth and development of the nation. Just as parents address the nurturing needs of their young children, reformers recognized that Americans need to be nurtured spiritually and morally guided throughout its early years of development in order for the country to survive and prosper as it grew as a unified collective whole.