The First Great Awakening can best be described as a period of increased?

The First Great Awakening can best be described as a period of increased religious fervor and revivalism in the American colonies during the 18th century. It emphasized personal faith, emotional connection to God, and a rejection of traditional, established religious practices. Key figures like Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield played vital roles in spreading evangelical messages, leading to the growth of new denominations and a more democratized approach to religion. This movement also contributed to the emergence of a distinct American identity by fostering a sense of shared experience and community among diverse groups.