After Americans endured two decades of continuous depression, war and crisis through the 1930's and 40's, they sought a return to normalcy and longed to focus on the more private details of existence. Instead of national objectives, the public concentrated on family, home, and career, while becoming increasingly absorbed in religion. <Tab/>As the 1950's saw America in a state of national exhaustion, religion-in-general experienced a surge in popularity. Many critical …showed first 75 words of 1542 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1542 total…of their dedication to the fusion of religious principles and democratic ideals is evident still today. They believed that a nation with strong values and beliefs would lead to a responsible social system, a strong sense of patriotism and common ideals around which to base strong communities. Such beliefs created an atmosphere that encouraged religious pluralism and as a result the 1950's saw some of the most rapid spiritual growth in American history to date.