'In The Beginning' Section
Question 1
Describe John Wesley's interactions with the Moravians during his journey to and stay in Savannah. How did these interactions influence his religious beliefs and contribute to the development of Methodism?
Guidelines for Students:
- Introduction: Provide background information on John Wesley and the Moravians.
- Body Paragraphs:
- Interaction Details: Describe specific encounters between Wesley and the Moravians.
- Influence on Beliefs: Explain how these interactions impacted Wesley's personal faith.
- Formation of Methodism: Discuss how these experiences led to the formation of Methodism.
- Conclusion: Summarize the significance of these experiences on Wesley's religious outlook.
Question 2
Why did Jewish immigrants flee to the Georgia colony in 1733, and how did they manage to assimilate into Savannah's society over time? Consider how they adapted to life in a diverse community.
Guidelines for Students:
- Introduction: Discuss the persecution faced by Jewish communities in Europe leading to their migration.
- Body Paragraphs:
- Settlement and Assimilation: Describe the setting in Savannah upon arrival of the passengers of the William and Sarah.
- Maintaining Identity: Explain how the early Jewish community balanced integration with maintaining their religious identity.
- Conclusion: Reflect on the significance of their successful assimilation and growth in the community over time.
Question 3
Discuss the migration of the Salzburgers to the Georgia colony in the 1730s. What were the primary reasons for leaving Europe, and how did they establish and develop their community in Ebenezer? Consider the challenges they faced, their contributions to the colony, and the role of religious freedom in their settlement.
Guidelines for Students:
- Introduction: Provide background on the Salzburgers and the religious persecution they faced in Europe.
- Body Paragraphs:
- Establishment of Ebenezer: Describe their journey to Georgia, the founding of Ebenezer.
- Community Development: Discuss some of the challenges they faced and their contributions to the colony.
- Conclusion: Summarize the impact of the Salzburgers' settlement on Georgia's diversity and growth.
Question 4
Examine the development of African American congregations in Savannah during the 18th and 19th centuries. What factors contributed to their formation, and how did these congregations influence the social and cultural landscape of the city? Consider the roles of key individuals, the impact of religious revivals, and the challenges faced by these communities.
Guidelines for Students:
- Introduction: Set the context by describing the religious landscape in the American South in the 18th and 19th centuries.
- Body Paragraphs:
- Formation Factors: Identify key factors leading to the establishment of African American congregations.
- Influence on Society: Analyze the impact of these congregations on Savannah's social and cutural fabric.
- Conclusion: Reflect on the challenges faced and the resilience of these communities.
