Religion and American Politics

The American political landscape exists within the tension of celebrating religious diversity and espousing a narrative of Christian origin. The result is complex questions over the place of religion in the public sphere. This seminar will explore major debates and controversies in American religions and politics from the colonial period to the present. Special attention will be paid to debates about the impact of religion on the Constitution, Civil Rights movements, the Christian Right, Church-State debates, Supreme Court decisions, and presidential elections.

Students analyze speeches, debates, court cases, visuals, popular culture, and scholarly articles to explore how religion and politics work together to shape the U.S.