Heimler’s History: Reform Movements (1800-1848)

Overview

• Focus on reform movements from 1800 to 1848.
• Influenced by cultural and economic changes due to the Market Revolution.
• Expanding democracy led to a sense of agency and belief in improvement.

Reform Movements Covered

1. Religious Reform
2. Temperance
3. Abolitionism
4. Women’s Rights

1. Religious Reform

• Key Movement: Establishment of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormons).
  • Founder: Joseph Smith.
  • Received visions in Palmyra, New York.
  • Smith arrested and lynched due to controversial practices like polygamy.
  • Leadership taken by Brigham Young; led Mormons to Utah.

2. Temperance Movement

• Definition: Avoidance of alcoholic beverages.
• High consumption of alcohol in early 19th century (approx. 5 gallons/person).
• Influenced by the Second Great Awakening.
• Key Organization: American Temperance Society (founded 1826).
  • Founded by clergy and businessmen.
  • Targeted working-class men.
  • Over 5000 chapters established.
• Supported by factory owners and politicians for economic and social benefits.

3. Abolitionism

• Goal: End slavery.
• Spectrum of beliefs from gradual abolition to immediate emancipation.
• Strong influence from the Second Great Awakening.
• Key Figures:
  • William Lloyd Garrison:
    • Published "The Liberator".
    • Founded the American Anti-Slavery Society (1833).
    • Advocated for moral persuasion.
  • Frederick Douglass:
    • Escaped slave, self-taught literacy.
    • Published "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass".
    • Highlighted dehumanization of slavery.

4. Women’s Rights

• Emerged alongside abolitionist movement.
• Key Event: Seneca Falls Convention (1848).
  • Led by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott.
  • Document: Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions.
    • Modeled after the Declaration of Independence.
    • Advocated for equal rights for women.
• Marked the beginning of the formal women's rights movement.

Conclusion

• These reform movements were responses to the Market Revolution and the democratizing spirit of the time.
• Each movement addressed significant social issues and laid the groundwork for future reforms.