Between the Revolution and the Civil War, the dialogue of religious skepticism and faith profoundly shaped America. Although usually rendered nearly invisible, skepticism touched-and sometimes transformed-more lives than might be expected from standard accounts. This book examines Americans wrestling with faith and doubt as they tried to make sense of their world.

This book explores the varied terrain of religious activity in early national Baltimore. It examines the development and consequences of the voluntary church system in one urban center during the ferment and change of the formative age for American religion.