The Bible & the American Presidency

Even though the United States is founded upon the value of separation of Church and State, U.S. presidents have often violated this precept…in a good way. Religious ideas and words have flooded America since its founding and the Bible has often served as a go-to text for inspiration and celebration.

Big Ideas

1. The Hebrew Bible continues to make a large impact on the thematic and specific thinking of U.S. presidents. 
2. Presidents cite the Bible – with which they obviously have some familiarity – because it resonates with large chunks of the American public. 
3. The Hebrew Bible is adapted by American presidents for its general truths, albeit not necessarily laws particular to the Jewish Bible. 

Essential Questions

1. Why does the Hebrew Bible continue to make such an impact on American presidents?
2. How do general American values parallel general Hebrew Bible values?