Forgotten Features of the Founding

These penetrating, richly documented, and well-argued essays not only challenge conventional interpretations about church and state in early American history but also bring to light provocative themes and topics long overlooked—and refreshingly relevant to today's debates about the relationship of religion and politics. -- Matthew Spalding, director, B. Kenneth Simon Center for American Studies, The Heritage Foundation
The essays on William Penn, James Madison, and the Founders' reading of French authors are particularly noteworthy, and Hutson's take on the use and misuse of the idea of America as a Christian nation deserves wide circulation. An important collection on an important topic. * The Standard Reader *
Forgotten Features of the Founding confirms that the author is among the most astute students of religion in early American political and legal culture. Few scholars writing today are more familiar with, or make better use of, the primary documents of the founding era than James Hutson. Drawing on his vast knowledge of both primary sources and the most current scholarship, he offers new insights into old controversies and challenges readers to reconsider long held assumptions. . . . These original, provocative, and learned essays are a valuable addition to the literature on the diverse influences that shaped the American founding. This perceptive work is highly recommended for specialist and nonspecialist readers alike. * Journal of Church and State *
This collection of trenchant essays confirms that James H. Hutson is the most astute scholar of religion's often neglected contributions to the American founding. Drawing on his vast knowledge of primary sources and current scholarship, Hutson offers new insights into old controversies and challenges readers to reconsider long held assumptions. This original, provocative, and wise book is required reading for everyone interested in the religious themes of the founding era. -- Daniel Dreisbach, Department of Justice, Law and Society, American University
"This collection of trenchant essays confirms that James H. Hutson is the most astute scholar of religion's often neglected contributions to the American founding. Drawing on his vast knowledge of primary sources and current scholarship, Hutson offers new insights into old controversies and challenges readers to reconsider long held assumptions. This original, provocative, and wise book is required reading for everyone interested in the religious themes of the founding era." -- Daniel Dreisbach, Department of Justice, Law and Society, American University