Religious revivals have had a tremendous impact on American society throughout its history. During the First Great Awakening (1730-60), waves of religious enthusiasms spread over the American colonies. The Second Great Awakening (1840-80) saw the foundation of many new denominations, including Mormonism, the Shakers, the Oneidas, and the Seventh Day Adventists. These religions flowered and played a critical role in such cultural and historical movements as abolition, temperance, and public education. More recently, the rise of conservative Christianity during the late 20th century may be yet another "great awakening" that has had a profound impact on political, social, and cultural developments. The Encyclopedia is an A-to-Z reference that includes entries on all aspects of revivalism in the history of the United States. Biographical Entries include: George Whitefield; Jonathan Edwards; and Jerry Falwell. Denominations include: Shakers; Oneida Community; Mormons; and Social Issues: Education, Politics and Economics. The Encyclopedia includes an extensive bibliography on revivals in America, and a section of annotated primary source documents that will provide readers with a better understanding of the beliefs and traditions of revivalists of the past and present.