Conflict of Conviction: A Reappraisal of Quaker Involvement in the American Revolution

by William C. Kashatus

  • Conflict of Conviction is a collection of four essays that address the popular misconception that all Quakers, historically, have been absolutely against war and participation in civil government during a time of war. By examining the personal, theological and moral dilemmas and sacrifices of individual Friends such as Tom Paine and Nathanael Greene as well as Quaker groups who complied with the Revolutionary War effort, Kashatus provides a new understanding of the diversity as well as complexity of the Quaker involvement in the American Revolution. Especially noteworthy is the chapter on the Free Quaker movement.

  • University Press of America

    1990 | Paperback

    ISBN: 978-1-4617-3996-8

    Pages: 182

    Subjects: Religion / Christianity / Quaker, History / United States / Revolutionary Period (1775-1800)

    Price: $61.50 (soft cover)

  • “Kashatus provides an intellectual perspective of the problem of Quaker discipline and the American Revolution, describing the specific doctrinal debates and positions that justified individual and group participation in the Revolution.” – The Journal of American History

    “Kashatus displays the forces in time of war that leave Friends confused or polarized. His book contributes to the cultivation of modesty and temperance on both sides of this difficult issue.” – Friends Journal

    “This collection of essays makes a solid contribution to Quaker studies, and each is worthy of the attention of scholars.” – Southern Friend

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