Theocratic America challenge.

[tom]

Starting in 1600, what is the best way to get a Protestant Theocracy Superpower dominating the North American continent and influencing the world, like OTL USA?

[Beck Reilly]

What about the American Empire of New England, run since 1684 by the Mather dynasty?

Founded in the wake of the abusive Dominion of New England, the AENE, which expanded to control most of Canada and land north of Maryland certainly is thought of as a theocracy, expecially considering that the Mathers are not only the heads of state, but also the heads of the American Reformed Church (founded in 1739 as a response to the so-called Great Awakening rippling through Britain). Also, when you recall the violence towards opposition to the Mathers and the ARC, such as the executions of Timothy Dwight (who wanted to change the ARC in 1780s) and Joseph Smith (who tried to create an opposition church in the 1800s), you can see why some call the AENE the most brutal theocracy in the world. Still, in modern times, the AENE has at least allowed its citizens freedom of speech, if not freedom to practice another religion.

[Straha]

well you could get an america that in the 19th century gets a state religion. The america would follow the path of europe in leftism and socialism.

[Norman]

There was a great awakening in the 1830's, have it get out of control.

[DominusNovus]

Originally Posted by SurfNTurfStraha

well you could get an america that in the 19th century gets a state religion. The america would follow the path of europe in leftism and socialism.

I challenge you to come up with a scenario that doesn't involve america become leftist, socialist, communist, or one that legalizes drugs.

I honestly don't think you have the ability to.

[Diamond]

I think my Federated Republics of America is a pretty good example, Tom. You can find a description and maps at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/interp...confederation/ in the 'Files', 'Planes of the ICN', 'Cromwell' section.

[NapoleonXIV]

A theocratic US would almost have to be leftist through most of its history or it would probabaly not get to be as influential as in OTL. A rightist theocracy, being similar to the theocracies in Europe, would not attract immigrants to this country and it is the intellectuals from the rest of the world that have been a major influence in making the US the world's scientific/business leader.

[tom]

Good point, Nap14.
Gurps Alternate Earths 2 had a fair answer to my challenge in "Aeolus".