The Search for Social Salvation: Social Christianity and America, 1880-1925

By Gary Scott Smith

In their studies of social Christianity, scholars of American religion have devoted critical attention to a group of theologically liberal pastors, primarily in the Northeast. Gary Scott Smith attempts to paint a more complete picture of the movement. Smith's ambitious and thorough study amply demonstrates how social Christianity--which included blacks, women, Southerners, and Westerners--worked to solve industrial, political, and urban problems; reduce racial discrimination; increase the status of women; curb drunkenness and prostitution; strengthen the family; upgrade public schools; and raise the quality of public health. In his analysis of the available scholarship and case studies of individuals, organizations, and campaigns central to the movement, Smith makes a convincing case that social Christianity was the most widespread, long-lasting, and influential religious social reform movement in American history.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 073910196X
• ISBN13: 9780739101964
• Release Date: December 2000
• Publisher: Lexington Books
• Length: 560 Pages
• Weight: 1.91 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.4" x 6.3" x 9.0"