The Founding Myth

Why Christian Nationalism Is Un-American

By: Andrew L. Seidel, Susan Jacoby - Foreword

Narrated by: Christopher Grove

Length: 12 hrs and 58 mins

Publisher's summary

Do "In God We Trust", the Declaration of Independence, and other historical "evidence" prove that America was founded on Judeo-Christian principles? Are the Ten Commandments the basis for American law? A constitutional attorney dives into the debate about religion's role in America's founding.   

In today's contentious political climate, understanding religion's role in American government is more important than ever. Christian nationalists assert that our nation was founded on Judeo-Christian principles, and advocate an agenda based on this popular historical claim. But is this belief true? The Founding Myth answers the question once and for all. 

Andrew L. Seidel, a constitutional attorney at the Freedom from Religion Foundation, builds his case point by point, comparing the Ten Commandments to the Constitution and contrasting biblical doctrine with America's founding philosophy, showing that the Bible contradicts the Declaration of Independence's central tenets. Thoroughly researched, this persuasively argued and fascinating book proves that America was not built on the Bible and that Christian nationalism is, in fact, un-American.

©2019 Andrew L. Seidel; Foreword copyright 2019 Susan Jacoby (P)2019 Tantor

Just 2 Issues

This book is chock full of historical information, and well supported with references. I did enjoy the copious amount of little known details regarding the early years of our nation’s history. I have only two issues. One is that the announcer ruined the book in that, I felt like I was listening to a condescending, opinionated newscast from the 1960’s. The second being that there was often redundancy that caused the book to drag on. Those two reasons are certainly not deal-breakers, as this book is very well researched and presented. It is a type of book that can be listened to, many times over.

Amazing book. Not a fan of the narrator.

As an adult who was indoctrinated into christian fundamentalism from birth, I feel like I've spent the last several years playing catch up on history and science. This book absolutely lays bare the lies that Christian nationalists depend on being true in order to perpetuate their brand of reality. I learned so many things that I would have never known otherwise, and got a much better grasp of many of the nebulous ideas of "church and state separation" and "religious freedom". I also really enjoyed the format he used; breaking down each commandment or Christian "virtue" and how it sits in conflict with American ideals.

I bought this book in both kindle and audible format so I could listen and go back to the text. My only criticism is that I was not a fan of the narrator's voice at all. Overall, every american citizen should read this book thoroughly, and with an open mind. Especially if you're a believer in the Christian God and the mythology of the christian founding.

Overflowing with historical information Countering the claim that America was founded Christian & should return to Christianity

Its almost impossible to choose a specific part, the entire book is so informative and valuable. I am learning so much from it. The amount of false historical information taught as fact to children in America breaks my heart, and blows my mind. I really like chapter seven. It’s important to correct the idea that Christianity is pure, good, has all the answers, and only Christians can be good and moral. This is not, and never was a Christian nation. Our secular government guarantees true freedom to all, not just a select few. Andrew L Seidel, and other like him, who are fighting the Christian nationalist hijacking of our great nation, are truly American patriots and hero’s, fighting to maintain freedom for all.

Scary and heartbreaking

Andrew’s book is a dive into the actual history of the United States. I shouldn’t be surprised that a group of people want to be in power but to use such underhanded techniques in disgusting. Read/listen to this book only if you want to know what’s been going on. Then educate yourself.

Best Put Down Ever of Christian Nationalism

Andrew Seidel does the best job yet of breaking down the myth that America was founded on Christian biblical principles and that the founders were devoutly religious. Nothing could be farther from the truth. The intent of the founders has been steadily corrupted ever since, especially during the 20th century. Most relevant he exposes the dark threat creeping Christian Nationalism and the Christian Nationalist poster boy Donald Trump poses to our democracy . Great reading for the people who are free thinking, agnostic, religiously unafiliated or considering severing all ties with the religion they grew up with. Christian Nationalism propaganda and lies are everywhere in our culture. Time to blow this bullshit up and expose it for the tripe that is is.

The Founding of America Without the Myths

This is a well researched book that explains how and why the United States ended up with a secular government established for and by "We the People" all the while debunking the myth that our founding was in some way based on "Christian" principles. It's also a really good history lesson on the early settlers up through the founding era and as such should be taught in every high school in America.

Andrew closes the case on the argument.

This book so systematically shuts down every conceivable argument for the belief that the United States was founded as a Christian nation that he even covers the Pledge of Allegiance and the Oath of Office (both of which were not needed in my opinion). Fantastic book! Thoroughly useful as ammunition at family gatherings and water cooler debates!

just a rant, not an argument

sarcastic reading matching the ad hominum, cherry picked "quotes".
totally unbalanced christian and Catholic hater

Comprehensive Case for a Secular Government

Andrew L Seidel systematically and comprehensively dismantles the myth that America was founded as a Christian nation, systematically dealing with every argument that is employed by promoters of this myth. In doing so, he also makes a strong case for the founder's intentions of a secular government, effectively showing why freedom of religion is only possible under a government that is free FROM religion. Some of the facts he establishes were ones I knew before reading the book, such as the origin of The Pledge of Allegiance and how it morphed into something else over time. Other facts were new to me such as how "In God We Trust" came to be on American currency. This is a must read if you support the separation of religion and government. And if you don't support the separation of religion and government, then you're not an American.

An Important Work - Must Read

The Separation of State and Church has never been more important. This book details the myths surrounding historical fact and fiction. It’s an important read for both believers and non- believers to read. Thank you AS and FFRF for the work you do!

Well researched & important right now.

With the rise of Christian Nationalism lately, during & after Trump, the facts against & rebuttals of their flimsy mythology enumerated in this book are more important than ever.

Excellent, if a little bitter

I cannot help but sympathise with the author’s bitterness towards what is certainly thee biggest contemporary threat to there great American experiment- Christian nationalism.

However, I think the author’s forays into theology and biblical exegesis may undermine his key thesis (which is absolutely correct), given the many religious Christians who will disagree with his textual explanations.

Nevertheless, this is an excellent take down of the modern, fanatical myth that America is a Christian nation- it is not and wouldn’t exist without rebellion against orthodoxy.

One can only hope that the Trump presidency has finally removed from all thinking people any sentiment towards American Evangelicalism.

Interesting content, poor narration.

"Thou shalt not kill. Lie, steal and treat others as you want to be." Really?

A instant classic within its field

This book helps you have a better and more informed dialogue when arguing against those who would claim that the US constitution is based on Judeo-Christian principles.

Throughout the book you will find accessible arguments based on thorough and competent research from an expert in the field.

Lots of stars and two thumbs up.