From the Publisher
Civil War Pulpit to World's Parliament of Religion presents a comprehensive exposition of the thought of William James Potter, 1829 1893. Potter was a radical minister in the American freethought tradition who moved from his Quaker foundation to Unitarian Christianity and later to free religion. He was also a founder and leader of the Free Religious Association, 1867 1920. Following a biographical sketch, consideration is given to philosophical topics, the evolution of humans, religion, and Potter's applied philosophy. Potter's thought is also compared to that of his mentor, Theodore Parker.
W. Creighton Peden has rendered a great service in ably presenting a compelling portrait of a clergyman whose brilliant prophetic career is all the more impressive considering the disturbing period in American history in which he lived and labored. It is an intriguing book whose timely relevance readers should find both informative and inspiring. Frederick N. Nelson, Congregational (UCC) Clergyman, Retired
As was his previous volume on F. E. Abbot, Peden's Civil War Pulpit is thoroughly researched and clearly and persuasively written. Anyone interested in intellectual, social, and religious history of the U.S. in the nineteenth century will want to have this book. Douglas R. Anderson, Penn State University
