Final answer:
The religious enthusiasm in New England varied throughout history, with periods of decline and revival. The First and Second Great Awakenings had a significant impact on society, inspiring social activism and empowerment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The religious enthusiasm fared differently in New England throughout history. In the late seventeenth century, New England experienced a decline in the original Puritan mission, known as 'declension.' However, there were revivals such as the First Great Awakening in the 1730s and the Second Great Awakening in the early 1800s that brought renewed religious fervor and inspired social activism.
The First Great Awakening led to the growth of Christianity among African Americans and the spread of education for enslaved Africans. The revivals during this time also resulted in the split between the 'New Lights' who embraced the evangelical message and the 'Old Lights' who rejected it.
The Second Great Awakening in New England inspired a wave of social activism, including movements for abolition, temperance, women's rights, and education. It also empowered women to speak publicly and had an impact on Congregationalists and Presbyterians. Overall, the religious enthusiasm in New England varied throughout history, but it played a significant role in shaping society and inspiring reform movements.