Crosses & Cannons: Christianity and War in American History

Introduction:

• The confluence of Christianity and war throughout American history.
• Overview of the interplay between religious principles, justifications, oppositions, and wars in the United States.

Part I: Foundation and Formation

1. Chapter 1: The Colonial Roots
   • Exploration of early colonial religious dynamics and conflicts.
   • Impact of Christianity on Colonial warfare and interactions with Native Americans.
2. Chapter 2: Revolutionary Ideals
   • Examination of Christian influence on the American Revolution.
   • Analysis of religious rhetoric and principles in revolutionary ideology.

Part II: Moral Complications of Conflict

3. Chapter 3: The Civil War: A House Divided
   • Investigation into the roles of Christianity in justifying and opposing slavery and the ensuing war.
   • Examination of Christian imagery and rhetoric employed by both Union and Confederacy.
4. Chapter 4: World War I & II: Crusading for Democracy
   • Study of religious motivations and reflections in the World Wars.
   • Examination of Christian involvement in war efforts, both in support and opposition.

Part III: Cold War and Moral Struggles

5. Chapter 5: Cold War Conflicts: God and Communism
   • Exploration of the role of Christianity in framing Cold War tensions.
   • Investigation of religious underpinnings in American anti-communist ideology and conflicts, including the Korean and Vietnam wars.
6. Chapter 6: Christianity and the Civil Rights Movement
   • Study of Christian motivations in the Civil Rights movement.
   • Examination of Christian resistance to racial equality and integration.

Part IV: Contemporary Conflux

7. Chapter 7: Iraq and Afghanistan: Holy Wars?
   • Scrutiny of Christian rhetoric and motivations in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
   • Exploration of the intersection of religion, morality, and modern warfare.
8. Chapter 8: Christianity and Modern Military Ethics
   • Investigation into the role of Christianity in shaping modern military ethics and laws of war.
   • Analysis of Christian perspectives on nuclear weapons, drones, and other contemporary military technologies.

Part V: Reflections and Prospects

9. Chapter 9: Peace Movements: The Christian Voice
   • Overview of Christian peace movements and anti-war activism throughout American history.
   • Examination of the theological and moral arguments for peace within Christianity.
10. Chapter 10: The Future of Christianity and War in America
    • Reflection on the evolving relationship between Christianity and war.
    • Discussion of prospective developments and challenges in the interplay between religious morality and warfare in a changing global landscape.

Conclusion:

• Summary of the intricate and multifaceted relationship between Christianity and war in the United States.
• Reflection on the ongoing tension between Christian morals and the realities of conflict.
• Exploration of the potential future pathways and resolutions.