George Washington and the Pursuit of Religious Freedom
This page provides resources on George Washington and the Pursuit of Religious Freedom, a 15-minute film that covers religion in early America, the defeat of the British Empire, and the steps leading up to the passing of the Bill of Rights in 1791. Use these resources to view the film, learn more about the journey toward religious freedom, and find incredible source materials!
Watch the Full Film
Click to watch the full film of George Washington and the Pursuit of Religious Freedom.
Interactive Map
Use this link to access an interactive map showing religion in early America.
Interactive Religious Freedom Timeline
Click here to explore a timeline on religious freedom in America!
Religious Difference
There were many religions in early America. However, some religious groups did not tolerate religious difference. Click the button to access more resources about religion and religious conflict in colonial North America.
Washington's Awakening
As more religious and people groups settled in British North America, the British Empire found the colonies difficult to control. When the War for Independence broke out, Washington was given the task of uniting men of different faiths. Would he be successful? Find more religion and Revolution classroom resources below.
Finding Religious Freedom
After Americans gained independence, many questions and concerns about religious freedom came from individuals and people groups. George Washington had much to consider. Discover resources that show the road to religious freedom!
A Lasting Presence
Washington's advocacy of religious freedom was essential to the founding of the United States and is still important today. See more resources on Washington's words, ideas, and legacy in America.
Why Does it Matter?
Many of Washington's actions as president impact America today. Celebrities like Harrison Ford help us explain how, in the videos linked here.
Primary Sources
Discover our Primary Sources on Religious Freedom
- Washington's Bible
- The Declaration of Independence
- The Bill of Rights
- The Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom
- Letter: Thomas Paine and Quakers
- Letter to Touro Synagogue
- Petitions to Religious Organizations
- George Washington to Edward Newenham (Founders Online)
- Circular Letter to the States
- Washington's Inaugural Address Painting
- Washington's Farewell Address
Secondary Sources
Discover our Secondary Sources on Religious Freedom
- Washington's Beliefs
- Washington's Baptism
- The Bible
- Religion of the Washington Family
- The Anglican Church
- Pohick Church
- Christ Church, Alexandria
- Religious Music
- Religions of the Enslaved
- Native Americans
- Freemasons
- Islam
- Catholicism
- Trinity Church
- Continental Army
- Religious Freedom
- Tuoro Synagogue
- Moses Seixas
- United States Founding Documents
Teaching Religious Freedom
This helpful section includes vocabulary terms, inquiry questions, a graphic organizer, further reading, and much more. Click the link below to access wonderful classroom resources!
Watch Religious Freedom
Learn how George Washington successfully established religious freedom in America with this 15 minute film!