America's Providential History: A Documentary Sourcebook

The Founders of America had a providential view of history and approached the spheres of education, government, politics, economics, and family life from a Biblical perspective. Infusing their Christian ideas in the foundation of America is why she has been the most free and prosperous nation in history. In the book America's Providential History, Mark Beliles and Stephen McDowell give many quotes and excerpts from historical writings that support this supposition. This Documentary Sourcebook, designed as a companion to America's Providential History, presents other primary source materials and allows the reader to experience firsthand the ideas, character, and literacy level of early Americans.

Reading primary source materials is the best way to learn of the faith and worldview of America's founders. These writings show how the Founders had a Christian philosophy of government, they understood the divine purpose of civil government, and they knew that government begins internally in the heart of man with the ability to govern his own life. Over 25 selections including: Columbus' Christian Character and Divine Mission; The Seige of Leyden, Holland (1574) by John Motley; The Fast and Thanksgiving Days of New England; The Chaplains and Clergy of the Revolution; Christianity the Key to the Character and Career of Washington; Election Day in Early America; Letter To A Young Gentleman Commencing His Education by Noah Webster; Letters of John Quincy Adams to His Son on the Bible and Its Teachings; First Lessons in Civil Government. McDowell writes brief introductions to each selection.135 pages