The Christian Coalition

The mobilization of politically conservative followers of the Christian religion into a single lobbying force is a unique feature of American politics in the late 20th century. The group most frequently associated with this movement is the Christian Coalition (CC), founded by talk show host and past Presidential candidate, Pat Robertson. Justin Watson provides a look at the underpinnings of this remarkable organization. Watson examines the CC in the context of religious and political history in the United States, offering theories which help to explain its purpose, its popularity and its power. He argues that the two main motives for its existence are: a longing for the restoration of America to a "purer", homogeneous nation under God: a desire for widespread recognition of conservative Christians as a victimized minority by a socially liberal world. It includes a conclusion which sheds light on what the future might hold.