A product of trans-Atlantic revivalism and awakening, Methodism initially took root in America in the eighteenth century. In the mid-nineteenth century, Methodism exploded to become the largest religious body in the United States and the quintessential form of American religion. This Cambridge Companion offers a general, comprehensive introduction to various forms of American Methodism, including the African-American, German Evangelical Pietist, holiness and Methodist Episcopal traditions. Written from various disciplinary perspectives, including history, literature, theology and religious studies, this volume explores the beliefs and practices around which the lives of American Methodist churches have revolved, as well as the many ways in which Methodism has both adapted to and shaped American culture. This volume will be an invaluable resource to scholars and students alike, including those who are exploring American Methodism for the first time.

‘Through wise selection of themes, and broad recruitment of contributors, Vickers has produced the best single-volume introduction available to the family of Methodist churches in North America. The volume traces both the growth of the movement transplanted from England and its proliferation into multiple strands - ranging from the earliest distinct African-American churches, through the Holiness-focused churches, and beyond. Highly recommended!’

Randy L. Maddox - Duke Divinity School

'This is a wonderfully useful guide for navigating the broad history of American Methodism. Its strength is its multilayered approach. Together these deeply informed essays connect Methodism to some of the most important developments in American culture and society over the past 250years.'

John Wigger - author of American Saint and Taking Heaven by Storm

'… an excellent overall consideration of American Methodism … this is a text that is a rich resource.'

Source: Irish Methodist Newsletter

'A strength of the volume is the commitment to treat not only the largest and most well-known American Methodist bodies, but to incorporate historical commentary on a multiplicity of Wesleyan/Methodist denominations … Those who have studied American Methodism will find in this book reminders of important institutions, persons, and events as well as fresh insights regarding the topics treated. Others, not well versed in American Methodism’s development, will appreciate the clear presentation of its multifaceted development and contribution to American life.'

Charles Yrigoyen, Jr Source: Wesley and Methodist Studies