The Democratic Foundation: Religious Freedom Enabling the Second Great Awakening

Question: Use the information to answer the question that follows. From the 1790s to the 1830s, a religious movement called the Second Great Awakening influenced American society. Methodists and Baptists were the leading religious groups in this revival, but members of other religious groups were affected, as well. Thousands attended camp meetings, where preachers led people in prayer. Many of the social reform movements of that time—such as the abolitionism and temperance—were led by people inspired by their religious experiences as a result of this movement. Which statement best explains how American democracy made the Second Great Awakening possible? A. People gathered at religious events to discuss political issues. B. Government provided financial support to hold religious events. C. Preachers used religious events to campaign for election to public office. D. Religious events could take place because religious freedom was guaranteed.