This paper discusses the history and implications of religious freedom in the United States.
This paper explains that the oldest and most cordial pedigree of religious autonomy can be found in U.S.A., where public policy says that religious beliefs must be a matter of individual scruples and entirely resistant from any intrusion by the state. The author points out that the separation of Church and State is vital, but the State can’t be a religion-free zone that goes in opposition to the foundation of religious freedom and freedom of idea. The paper relates that United States’ dedication to religious freedom has become a part of its overseas policy as stated in the breakthrough legislation, the International Religious Freedom Act, which fights against religious harassment in foreign countries.
“Religious liberty is one major cause for the origin of our country. The notion of ideological and spiritual freedom remains as strong these days as it was at the time of the founding of the United States. The founding fathers left their homelands for a country, which assured freedoms to all. Representatives at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia (1787) deliberately avoided making strong declarations concerning religion due to a firm conviction that religious necessities were needless to protect religious freedom. This oversight was not taken calmly by six states, which went on to offer amendments guaranteeing religious liberty.”