ePub Rasa: Performing the Divine in India by Susan Schwartz in History

Description

This book challenges the idea that the mixing of religion and presidential politics is a new phenomenon. It explores how presidents have drawn on their religious upbringing; rhetoric; ideas; and beliefs to promote their domestic and foreign policies to the nation. This influence is evident in Washington's decision to add "so help me God" to the presidential oath; accusations by Adam's supporters that Jefferson was an infidel; Lincoln's biblical metaphors during the Civil War; and FDR's call to fight against Nazi totalitarianism on behalf of Judeo-Christian civilization. It is also apparent in Truman's support for Israel; Eisenhower's Cold War decision to add "In God We Trust" on American currency; the debate over JFK's Catholicism; Jimmy Carter's born-again Christianity; Reagan's "Evil Empire" speech; Clinton's public repentance; and George W. Bush's "crusade" against Islamic terrorists. This volume explores these issues of religion and power in the presidencies of Washington; Jefferson; Madison; Lincoln; FDR; Truman; Eisenhower; JFK; Carter; Reagan; George H. W. Bush; Clinton; and George W. Bush through scholarly interpretations; primary sources; and illustrations.