Moral Majority

Definition

The Moral Majority was a prominent political organization founded in 1979 that sought to mobilize conservative Christians to engage in political activism and influence American politics based on traditional moral values. This group emerged during a time when many Americans felt that the nation was straying from its foundational beliefs, leading to a rise in conservatism and the eventual election of Ronald Reagan. The Moral Majority played a crucial role in uniting various Christian groups, advocating for issues like pro-life policies and opposing the perceived moral decay in society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Moral Majority claimed a membership of over 6 million people at its peak, showcasing the significant influence it had among conservative Christians.
2. Founded by Jerry Falwell, the organization focused on mobilizing voters during key elections, especially in the 1980 presidential election.
3. The Moral Majority opposed abortion and advocated for school prayer, believing these issues were vital to restoring America's moral fabric.
4. It helped pave the way for the Republican Party's alignment with evangelical Christians, significantly shaping the party's platform in subsequent decades.
5. Despite its initial success, the influence of the Moral Majority began to wane in the late 1980s and early 1990s as newer movements and changes in society emerged.

Review Questions

• How did the Moral Majority contribute to the rise of conservatism in American politics during the late 20th century?
  • The Moral Majority contributed to the rise of conservatism by uniting various evangelical Christian groups under a common cause aimed at influencing politics through activism. Their efforts to mobilize voters around issues like abortion and school prayer resonated with many Americans who felt disillusioned by changing social norms. This organized political engagement laid the groundwork for significant electoral victories, including Ronald Reagan's presidency.
• In what ways did the Moral Majority influence Republican Party policies and electoral strategies in the 1980s?
  • The Moral Majority significantly influenced Republican Party policies by pushing for a platform centered on traditional family values and social conservatism. The organization's ability to rally millions of conservative Christians transformed electoral strategies, as candidates increasingly sought support from this demographic. The emphasis on issues like anti-abortion measures and school prayer became integral parts of Republican campaigns, shaping party identity during this period.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the Moral Majority on American society and politics beyond its initial peak in the 1980s.
  • The long-term impact of the Moral Majority can be seen in how it laid the foundation for ongoing evangelical political engagement and activism. While its direct influence waned, it inspired subsequent movements that continued to advocate for conservative values within American politics. The blending of religion and politics initiated by the Moral Majority created enduring divisions within American society regarding moral and social issues, which remain significant in contemporary political debates.

Related terms

Religious Right: A political movement that emerged in the late 20th century, consisting of conservative Christian groups advocating for a return to traditional moral values in politics and public policy.

Ronald Reagan:

The 40th President of the United States, serving from 1981 to 1989, who was heavily supported by the Moral Majority and is credited with reshaping American conservatism.

Family Values: A set of beliefs emphasizing the importance of traditional family structures, which became a key component of the Moral Majority's platform and broader conservative agenda.