Following the American Revolution, whose victory not only granted the United States independence but also opposed the mixing of politics and religion. This separation of religion from politics led to a series of religious revivals that swept the United States. From 1790 to 1840, the Second Great Awakening created a spread of religious revival. The revival influenced individual and moral discovery and encouraged individuals to pursue knowledge of God. The religious revival movement appealed to many women, African Americans, and Native Americans, consequently led to many reform movements. Although often hampered by opposition and discrimination, the reforms between 1825 and 1855 nevertheless substantially led to an expansion of democratic ideals through political, cultural, and social improvements. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay The reforms that came with the Second Great Awakening altered American culture as well as democratic ideals. Movements such as the physiological movement of Transcendentalism which countered the spirituality of the time and taught individuals to be self-sufficient and independent. Transcendentalists, including Ralph Waldo Emerson, challenged existing religious and political systems, and the idea of opening the mind to new ideas greatly expanded democratic values. Cultural reforms also altered American religions, with the rapid spread of Evangelical, Methodist, and Baptist religions promoting the ideas of human reasoning and free will. Political reforms expanded democratic rights insufficiently, particularly under the presidency of Andrew Jackson. Andrew Jackso increased the rights of “common men” by eliminating property requirements for voter eligibility. Although this gave more freedom to vote, some social groups of people did not receive such freedoms. This was a lack of expansion towards democratic ideals, as women, African Americans, and slaves did not receive such rights and therefore had no equality, freedom, or justice. Women's rights movements supported equality, especially in politics. Women were neglected socially and politically, had no right to vote or hold political office, and could not control their property. revival movements inspired women to challenge traditional roles and gatherings such as the Seneca Falls Convention. They sought the equality promised by the new democratic government. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay The social improvements as a result of the Second Great Awakening greatly reflected the democratic appeal. The impact on the temperance movement was strongly supported during this period as organizations were formed to limit or outlaw the conception or production of alcohol. Mainly supported by the majority of women who opposed its danger and the negative effect it had on their families, it interrupted the democratic pursuit of happiness. Education reforms were also strongly supported as citizens could not remain ignorant, reformers supported education paid for and maintained by the public and should be given equally to every child. The democratic ideal of equality was greatly expanded with the abolitionist movement. As they sought the immediate emancipation of all slaves and an end to racial discrimination and segregation. The radical movement demanded the promised equality that.
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