American Heathens

Discover the profound insights of American Heathens by Joshua Paddison, published by the esteemed University of California Press in 2012. This compelling hardback edition spans 280 pages and delves into the pivotal 19th-century debate surrounding the identity of the United States as a Christian nation.

Set against the backdrop of California, a key battleground in this discourse, Paddison illuminates the profound impact of reconstruction on Indigenous peoples and Asian Americans. Through meticulous research, the author showcases how these communities fought tirelessly for political representation and challenged racist narratives through their lived experiences, eloquent expressions, and unwavering faith.

Engaging and thought-provoking, American Heathens is essential reading for those interested in the intersections of religion, race, and politics in American history.