4th Grade History & Social Studies — America's Godly Heritage — From Columbus to the Constitution
Students will learn about the Christian faith of key Founding Fathers and how their beliefs shaped the new nation.
The men who founded America were deeply influenced by the Bible and their Christian faith. Many of them believed that God had a special plan for the new nation they were building.
George Washington, the 'Father of Our Country,' was known for his devotion to prayer. As commander of the Continental Army, he often knelt in prayer asking God for guidance. When he became the first President, he placed his hand on the Bible and added the words 'So help me God' to the oath of office.
John Adams, the second President, wrote: 'The general principles on which the fathers achieved independence were the general principles of Christianity.' He believed the Bible was the foundation of good government.
Benjamin Franklin, at the Constitutional Convention, called the delegates to prayer saying, 'I have lived, sir, a long time, and the longer I live the more convincing proofs I see of this truth — that God governs in the affairs of men.' These men understood that without God's blessing, the nation could not succeed.
Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry, John Jay, and many other founders were outspoken about the importance of Christian faith in public life. They believed that a free nation needed a moral and religious people to survive.
Choose one Founding Father from the lesson. Draw a portrait of him and write three facts about his faith and his role in building America. Share your findings with the class.