George Washington and Religion

Paul F. Boller

• Publisher: Bonhopai Books
• Year: 2025
• eBook ISBN: 9781779790620
• Topic: History
• Subtopic: British History
• Index: History

Paul F. Boller's George Washington and Religion offers a balanced and scholarly exploration of the first U.S. president's religious beliefs and their influence on his life and leadership. Moving beyond myth and speculation, Boller examines Washington's personal writings, public statements, and contemporary accounts to provide a nuanced portrait of his spiritual views.

 

While often portrayed as either a devout Christian or a skeptical deist, Washington's actual religious outlook was more complex. Boller explores his commitment to religious tolerance, his participation in Anglican worship, and his avoidance of doctrinal debates. The book also delves into Washington's use of religious language in public discourse, his attitudes toward Providence, and his support for religious freedom, as reflected in his famous letter to the Hebrew Congregation of Newport.

 

 Clear and well-researched, George Washington and Religion separates fact from fiction, offering insight into the role of faith in Washington's personal and political life. Essential reading for historians, scholars of religion, and anyone interested in the intersection of faith and the founding of the United States. 

Table of contents

• Title page
• TABLE OF CONTENTS
• DEDICATION
• PREFACE
• I — WASHINGTON AND THE PIETISTS
• II — WASHINGTON AS A CHURCHMAN
• III — RELIGION AND THE SOCIAL ORDER
• IV — WASHINGTON AND CHRISTIANITY
• V — WASHINGTON’S RELIGIOUS OPINIONS
• VI — WASHINGTON AND RELIGIOUS LIBERTY
• APPENDIX — Letters and Addresses by Washington To Religious Organizations
• NOTES