Final answer:
Post-American Revolution, states implemented varying degrees of separation between church and state, with some retaining established churches while others sought greater religious freedom. The diffusion of religion in the United States primarily reflects the inheritance of family beliefs, alongside historical waves of voluntary and involuntary conversions. Over time, events like the Second Great Awakening influenced religious practices and beliefs, while the principle of religious freedom continued to be a key American value.
Step-by-step explanation:
Changes in Religion Post-American Revolution
After the American Revolution, the relationship between religion and state governments underwent significant changes. Prior to the Revolution, many colonies had tax-supported churches and laws that privileged certain denominations, notably in areas with a strong Puritan heritage. However, post-Revolution, there was an increase in the push for religious freedom and separation of church and state, reflecting the revolutionary spirit of independence and the desire for a republicanism that did not prescribe a specific religion.
In the wake of independence, debates centered around religious liberty and whether religion should influence government roles. This provided an opportunity for states to act as 'laboratories' in the experiment of democracy, with varying degrees of separation between church and state. While some New England states maintained vestiges of their established churches, others embraced religious freedom more fully. Notably, the construction of religious freedom and tolerance began well before the Revolution, influenced by the diversity of beliefs among colonists and the flight from religious persecution in Europe.
The diffusion of religion in the United States offers a case study on how religion spread and was adopted, often through familial traditions, showcasing a mix of voluntary and involuntary conversions throughout history. The religious landscape continued to evolve with developments such as the Second Great Awakening, which brought a resurgence of evangelical Christianity emphasizing personal conversion and active proselytizing. Throughout these changes, the American ideal of religious freedom remained an important feature, though its application varied widely across different states and eras.