Jesus and Gin: Evangelicalism, the Roaring Twenties and Today’s Culture Wars

Dive into the tumultuous and fascinating world of the 1920s with Barry Hankins' "Jesus and Gin: Evangelicalism, the Roaring Twenties and Today's Culture Wars." Published by St. Martin's Press in 2010, this compelling hardcover book offers a rollicking and insightful exploration of the eras vibrant religious landscape and its surprising parallels to contemporary culture wars. At 256 pages and weighing approximately 425 grams, this first edition is a tangible piece of history. Hankins, a distinguished professor known for his expertise in American religious history, masterfully weaves together a narrative rich with colorful characters and dramatic events. "Jesus and Gin" isn't just a historical account; it's a lens through which to understand the enduring tensions between religious conviction, social change, and political power in the United States. Explore the era of flappers, jazz, and prohibition, where a potent blend of religious fervor and social anxiety fueled the temperance movement a crusade Hankins aptly describes as the "anti-abortion crusade of the Jazz Age." Meet the charismatic yet flawed figures who dominated the pulpits and influenced public opinion, including preachers who wielded immense power, media-savvy evangelists embroiled in scandalous affairs, and politicians who catered to the religious right. The book unflinchingly reveals the hypocrisy and human failings lurking beneath the surface of piety. Hankins illuminates the fierce battles between fundamentalists and liberals that raged during the 1920s, laying bare the roots of many of the ideological clashes that continue to shape American society today. From presidential elections decided on religious grounds to the culture wars that gripped the nation, "Jesus and Gin" reveals a period of intense social and religious upheaval that mirrors the challenges and divisions of our own time. Reviewers have praised Hankins' engaging writing style and his ability to connect historical events to contemporary issues. The book provides valuable context for understanding the rise and, as Hankins argues, the potential disarray of the religious right, drawing striking parallels between the powerful sway of preachers in the 1920s and the influence of religious leaders on modern-day politics. This is not just a book about the past; it's a vital resource for anyone seeking to understand the complex interplay between religion, politics, and culture in America. If you are interested in religious history, American history, or understanding the foundations of the culture wars that still affect America, this book is for you!