Abstract

American Puritanism originated from a movement for reform in the Church of England, which had a profound influence on social, political, ethical, and theological ideas of the Americans. Focusing on its impact upon American values, the present paper first discusses the origin and the tenets of Puritanism. The forming of American individualism and democratic thoughts were, obviously, influenced by Puritanism in New England. It also shaped American people’s national character of being hard-working and thrifty, and made them bear a strong sense of mission. Moreover, Puritanism rendered Americans devoted to popular education.

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