American reform movements

Definition

American reform movements refer to a series of social, political, and cultural movements aimed at bringing about significant changes in various aspects of American society. These movements sought to address issues such as slavery, women's rights, education reform, temperance, and prison reform.

Related terms

Second Great Awakening: A religious revival movement during the early 19th century that emphasized personal salvation and individual responsibility.

Transcendentalism: A philosophical and literary movement in the mid-19th century that emphasized spiritual self-reliance and the importance of nature.

Abolitionism: A movement focused on achieving the immediate emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States.