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The Great Agnostic: Robert Ingersoll and American Freethought

Name: The Great Agnostic: Robert Ingersoll and American Freethought
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Book Synopsis: During the Gilded Age, which saw the dawn of America’s enduring culture wars, Robert Green Ingersoll was known as “the Great Agnostic.” The nation’s most famous orator, he raised his voice on behalf of Enlightenment reason, secularism, and the separation of church and state with a vigor unmatched since America’s revolutionary generation. When he died in 1899, even his religious enemies acknowledged that he might have aspired to the U.S. presidency had he been willing to mask his opposition to religion. To the question that retains its controversial power today—was the United States founded as a Christian nation?—Ingersoll answered an emphatic no.

In this provocative biography, Susan Jacoby, the author of Freethinkers: A History of American Secularism, restores Ingersoll to his rightful place in an American intellectual tradition extending from Thomas Jefferson and Thomas Paine to the current generation of “new atheists.” Jacoby illuminates the ways in which America’s often-denigrated and forgotten secular history encompasses issues, ranging from women’s rights to evolution, as potent and divisive today as they were in Ingersoll’s time. Ingersoll emerges in this portrait as one of the indispensable public figures who keep an alternative version of history alive. He devoted his life to that greatest secular idea of all—liberty of conscience belonging to the religious and nonreligious alike.

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Discover the compelling story of Robert Green Ingersoll, known as "the Great Agnostic," in the captivating book, "The Great Agnostic: Robert Ingersoll and American Freethought." In the midst of America's Gilded Age and enduring culture wars, Ingersoll fearlessly championed Enlightenment reason, secularism, and the separation of church and state. With unmatched vigor, he used his powerful oratory skills to advocate for the values that shaped the nation's revolutionary generation.

Susan Jacoby, the acclaimed author of "Freethinkers: A History of American Secularism," delves into the fascinating life of Ingersoll, shedding light on his vital role in America's intellectual tradition. From iconic figures like Thomas Jefferson and Thomas Paine to the modern-day "new atheists," Jacoby demonstrates how Ingersoll's ideas seamlessly connect, challenging the notion that the United States was founded as a Christian nation. Ingersoll boldly stated an emphatic "no" to this question, and his words still hold controversial power today.

As you explore this provocative biography, you'll gain a fresh perspective on America's secular history, often overlooked and underestimated. Jacoby explores issues such as women's rights and evolution, which were just as potent and divisive during Ingersoll's time as they are today. Through her vivid portrayal, Jacoby showcases Ingersoll as an indispensable public figure who fought to keep an alternative version of history alive, reminding us of the importance of liberty of conscience for both religious and nonreligious individuals.

Don't miss out on this fascinating exploration of an influential figure in American history. Expand your understanding of secularism and the ongoing debates that shape our society. Order your copy of "The Great Agnostic: Robert Ingersoll and American Freethought" now and join the ranks of those who seek knowledge and enlightenment.

Ready to embark on this enlightening journey? Order your copy of "The Great Agnostic: Robert Ingersoll and American Freethought" today!

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