Final answer:
Historical context of religious experiences centers on the Second Great Awakening, with emotional revivals led by charismatic preachers like Finney and Cartwright, emphasizing perfection and holiness. Societal impact includes the alignment of values with evangelical Christianity and the formation of moral reform societies to combat social vices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The questions provided relate to the veracity and impact of religious experiences, particularly during the Second Great Awakening. This era saw the growth of evangelical movement with noteworthy changes in societal behavior due to the religious zeal it sparked. The subject matter involves historical accounts of religious revivals, the rise of Methodist and Baptist churches, and the emphasis on personal salvation and moral reform in American society post the War of 1812.
Key characteristics of this movement included emotional religious revival gatherings proclaimed by preachers like Peter Cartwright and Charles Grandison Finney, which promoted a sense of existential reality of religious beliefs among the masses. These preachers advocated for a holy life of perfection akin to that of God's nature. Their intense sermons and the use of folk music and hymns engaged audiences, creating an exhilarating atmosphere and establishing a foundation for lasting religious influence.
Moreover, during the Second Great Awakening, moral reform societies were established, which focused on reforming personal vices and improving society by adhering to righteousness. This directly influenced societal norms and values, suggesting that religion played a significant role in societal reforms.