Faith at the Founding: Religion and the American Revolution episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 30, 2026 · 29 MIN

Faith at the Founding: Religion and the American Revolution

from Harvard Divinity School · host Harvard Divinity School

What did religion actually look like in America in 1776? In this episode of Harvard Religion Beat, host Jonathan Beasley speaks with Harvard Divinity School professor Catherine Brekus about the role of faith in Revolutionary America—from Sunday worship and the influence of ministers to the experiences of women, enslaved people, and Indigenous communities. Brekus also explores how religion shaped the American Revolution, what life was like at Harvard during the founding era, and why this history continues to inform conversations about religion and public life today. Show Notes Produced and hosted by Jonathan Beasley Edited by Tyler Sprouse Logo art direction by Kristie Welsh Intro/Outro music: "Shape Of Hope"; Publishers: Abbey Road Masters; Universal Production Music Ad break music: "Atmospheres"; Publishers: Aurora; Universal Production Music Sign up for the HDS Current newsletter: https://www.hds.harvard.edu/news/connect Follow HDS on social media @HarvardDivinity

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jun 30, 2026

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