1. The growth of evangelical Protestantism:
The Second Great Awakening led to a significant increase in the number of evangelical Protestant churches in the United States, particularly Methodist and Baptist churches. By 1850, there were more than 30,000 Methodist churches and 15,000 Baptist churches in the country, and these denominations became major forces in American religious life.
2. The rise of abolitionism:
The Second Great Awakening played a key role in the rise of the abolitionist movement, which sought to end slavery in the United States. Many abolitionist leaders were evangelical Protestants, and they drew upon their religious convictions to argue against the institution of slavery. The Second Great Awakening also helped to create a more sympathetic public for the abolitionist cause, and it played a role in the eventual abolition of slavery in the United States.
3. The development of social reform movements:
The Second Great Awakening led to the development of a number of social reform movements, such as the temperance movement, which sought to promote abstinence from alcohol, and the women's suffrage movement, which sought to secure voting rights for women. Many social reformers were evangelical Protestants, and they drew upon their religious convictions to argue for social change. The Second Great Awakening also helped to create a more receptive climate for social reform, and it played a role in the eventual success of many of these movements.
4. The expansion of education:
The Second Great Awakening led to the expansion of education in the United States, particularly in the West and South. Many evangelical Protestants believed that education was essential for the spread of Christianity, and they founded schools and colleges to provide education to children and adults alike. The Second Great Awakening also helped to create a greater demand for education, and it played a role in the eventual establishment of a free public school system in the United States.
5. The shaping of American culture:
The Second Great Awakening had a profound impact on American culture. It helped to shape American values, beliefs, and practices, and it left a lasting legacy on American society. The Second Great Awakening also contributed to the development of a uniquely American form of Christianity, which emphasized personal experience, emotionalism, and social activism.