Increase Mather

Increase Mather by Kenneth B. Murdock is a definitive biographical study of one of the most influential figures in the early history of New England. As a prominent Puritan clergyman, the president of Harvard College, and a critical political diplomat, Increase Mather was a central pillar of seventeenth-century American life. This work provides a meticulous examination of Mather's intellectual and spiritual journey, detailing his role as a leader who navigated the complex intersection of faith, education, and governance during a transformative era for the Massachusetts Bay Colony.Murdock explores Mather's multifaceted legacy, from his defense of the colonial charter in London to his controversial and nuanced involvement in the Salem witch trials. The book illuminates the "New England Mind" through Mather's prolific writings and his efforts to maintain the religious purity of the colony while adapting to changing political realities. "Increase Mather" offers readers a deep dive into the foundations of American religious thought and the early development of American higher education. It is an essential resource for those interested in colonial history, the evolution of the Congregational church, and the life of a man who bridged the gap between the medieval and the modern world in the American colonies.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.