Thomas Coke and Early American Methodism

FAIN: RO-10497-70

Warren T. Smith
Interdenominational Theological Center, Inc. (Atlanta, GA 30314-4143)

Funds to support editing, final research and writing of critical biography of Thomas Coke, a key figure in early American Methodism. ABSTRACT: Funds to support editing, final research and writing of critical biography of key figure in early American Methodism, estimating his influence on rise, expansion, social involvement and missionary activities. Of three leading early methodists, Wesley, Asbury, Coke, Coke's career most inadequately studied. He directed much of American Methodist activity in higher education, opposition to slavery, evangelism and missions in America and abroad. Methodism one of largest, most powerfully organized Protestant sects in US. Study focuses on central figure in early developmental stages of movement which has had far more effect on American attitutdes, mores, intellectual life, etc. than most historians realize. Most religious history in this country parochial, without broad social base. Ojective biography would shed light on broader influences of Methodism in America. "\