What role did religion play in the 17th century?

In the 17th century, religion was far more important than it is today. It was an important part of everyday life. Furthermore, there was no tolerance in matters of religion. By law all had to belong to the Church of England (although in practice there were many Roman Catholics, especially in the north-west).

How did 17th century Puritans feel about religious freedom?

The Puritans sought freedom, but they did not understand the idea of tolerance. They came to America to find religious freedom—but only for themselves. They had little tolerance or even respect for the Pequot Indians who lived in nearby Connecticut and Rhode Island. They called them pagans.

What was the goal of the Puritans' religious freedom for all?

The Puritans believed that civil authorities should enforce religion As dissidents, they sought religious freedom and economic opportunity in distant lands. They were religious people with a strong piety and a desire to establish a holy kingdom of people who would carry out God's will on earth.

How did religion affect the founding of the colonies?

Religion in the Colonies. Religion was key to the founding of a number of the colonies. Many were founded on the principle of religious freedom. The New England colonies were founded to give the Puritans a place to practice their religious beliefs. The Puritans did not give religious freedom to others, especially non-believers.

What was the religion of the New England colonists?

In the eighteenth century, the vast majority of all colonists were churchgoers. The New England colonists—with the exception of Rhode Island—were predominantly Puritans, who by and large led strict religious lives. The clergy were highly educated and devoted to the study and teaching of both Scripture and natural science.

What was the religion of the 13 colonies?

By the year 1702, all 13 American colonies had some form of state-sponsored religion. This support ranged from tax breaks to religious requirements to vote or serve in the legislature.

When did religion become illegal in the colonies?

Below are excerpts from founding colonial documents that cite these religious references. Most instances of state-sponsored religion were removed before 1850, and the remaining requirements were invalidated after the passage of the 14th Amendment on July 28, 1868.