Compare and contrast the influences of the American Revolution and the

Compare and contrast the influences of the American Revolution and the Second Great Awakening on the “ferment of reform” in the early nineteenth century.

In what ways were their influences reinforcing? How did they differ? Which do you think was the most important influence? Why?

ANSWER
The American Revolution emphasized natural rights; liberty; equality; Enlightenment principles of inherent goodness, progress, reason, and optimism.
The Second Great Awakening emphasized faith; individual responsibility (for sin and moral degeneracy in society); and the national mission.
Both emphasized optimism; sensitivity toward suffering; faith in humankind’s capacity to improve society; and the need for order and harmony in society.