250 years of faith: Top 25 moments that shaped the U.S.
From moments of hope and courage to times of challenge and renewal, belief has influenced leaders, communities, and movements across generations. These 25 moments highlight how faith helped shape the nation’s story—and continues to leave its mark today.
January 1, 1863
The Emancipation Proclamation is issued, shaped in part by faith-motivated abolitionist advocacy.
January 1, 1978
The American Indian Religious Freedom Act is signed into law, protecting Native Americans’ rights to practice their traditional religions.
January 2, 1636
Harvard College is founded in Massachusetts with strong Puritan religious roots, becoming the first institution of higher learning in America.
February 3, 1807
The African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church is officially recognized—the first independent Black denomination, empowering African Americans through faith and community.
February 15, 1934
The Mother Mosque of America in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the first mosque built in the United States, is dedicated.
March 4, 1789
The U.S. Constitution takes effect, shaped by leaders who believed divine providence guided the founding.
March 16, 1928
Rabbi Stephen Wise helps found the American Jewish Congress to defend civil and religious rights.
April 8, 1790
The First Quaker Meeting House in Philadelphia becomes a hub for peace and abolitionist activism.
April 18, 1775
Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride galvanizes colonial resistance, motivated by moral conviction and a sense of sacred duty.
May 24, 1844
Samuel Morse sends the first telegraph message: “What hath God wrought?” — faith-inspired innovation in communication.
May 12, 1963
The Catholic Worker Movement opens its first houses of hospitality, serving the poor and marginalized in faith.
June 2, 1872
Susan B. Anthony is arrested for voting, driven by her Quaker faith and sense of justice, a pivotal moment in the fight for women’s suffrage in the United States.
June 23, 1801
The Cane Ridge revival in Kentucky draws thousands, shaping the Second Great Awakening and evangelical expansion.
June 6, 1944
On D-Day, many American soldiers and chaplains turned to faith for courage and hope as they landed in Normandy, with military chaplains providing spiritual support amid the chaos of battle.
July 4, 1776
The Declaration of Independence proclaims freedom as a God-given right, reflecting the religious convictions of the founders.
July 26, 1904
The Azusa Street Revival begins, igniting the Pentecostal movement and reshaping American Christianity.
August 6, 1965
The Voting Rights Act is signed into law, with many faith leaders playing key roles in advocating for equality.
August 28, 1963
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivers his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech during the March on Washington, powerfully invoking faith and justice to inspire the civil rights movement.
September 25, 1789
Congress designates the first National Day of Prayer, affirming the role of faith in national life.
September 17, 1787
The U.S. Constitution is signed, with many framers believing their work was guided by divine providence.
October 21, 1884
Mother Cabrini opens schools, hospitals, and orphanages across the U.S., serving immigrant communities; she later becomes the first U.S. citizen canonized as a saint.
November 11, 1919
Armistice Day is first observed nationwide, with faith communities leading prayers and ceremonies to honor those who served and to pray for lasting peace after World War I.
December 18, 1865
The 13th Amendment, abolishing slavery, is ratified—an achievement deeply advanced by faith-motivated activists.
December 3, 1870
The National Baptist Convention is established, becoming a central institution for Black religious leadership and community.
December 23, 1873
The Salvation Army officially begins operations in the U.S., providing spiritual guidance and social services rooted in Christian faith.
Does reading about faith inspire you? Do you have a story or information about your faith you want to share? Tell us more!
Discover More:
