America had been a beacon of religious freedom for some time, providing a safe haven for those persecuted back in Europe for practicing their faith. Despite this, the established Anglican Church still retained a considerable degree of influence on American public life. Over time, the Church became associated in the minds of many with British control over the American colonies. The Church was an unwavering supporter of British rule, and its clergymen frequently preached loyalty to the King from their pulpits.

The Great Awakening, with its emphasis on individual salvation, threatened the spiritual and temporal authority of the Anglican Church in America. The Awakening wasn't tied to any particular institution; that's what made it so dangerous to the established order. It involved the coming together of tens of thousands of Americans of all Protestant denominations, uniting in a common purpose: the spiritual renewal of the country. This great religious revival challenged the existing hierarchy and power structures, nurturing in the minds of many a desire for freedom. Initially, it was spiritual freedom that was sought; but in due course, the spirit of independence unleashed by the Great Awakening led to growing demands for political and civic freedom. The Great Awakening was a revolution in the hearts and minds of the American people long before the first shots were fired at Lexington.