Final answer:
Charles Grandison Finney gave up his law practice to become a key Presbyterian minister during the Second Great Awakening after a powerful religious conversion in 1821.
Step-by-step explanation:
Conversion of Charles Grandison Finney:
In 1821, Charles Grandison Finney experienced a profound religious conversion which led him to abandon his law practice and then devote himself to becoming a Presbyterian minister. As a key figure in the Second Great Awakening, Finney became famous for his revival meetings and social reform advocacies, including the abolitionist movement. This turning point for Finney was critical, as his revivals had a significant impact on religious and social reforms, especially in the Northeastern United States.
As a dedicated Presbyterian minister, Finney conducted revival meetings that not only sought the conversion of individuals but also emphasized social activism, like temperance and the abolishment of slavery. These meetings were well-planned spectacles that lasted several nights, encouraging public confession and fostering a sense of spiritual empowerment among attendees, including women who were encouraged to speak publicly. Through his preaching and activism, Finney significantly contributed to the shaping of religious and social dynamics during this period.