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The Moderate Period Of The Temperance Reform, 1776-1833, Edith C. Burrows

Honors Theses

Temperance is an organized reform began at the end of the American Revolutionary War, its leaders inspired by the ravages dealt by alcoholics to the soldiers and sailors. At first self-control was desired; later self-denial was its dominant theme. Limited as it was, the temperance crusade, led by the aristocracy and the clergy, was naturally gradual in acquiring acceptance and strength. The course of its development from the 1780's until the mid-1830's was one of moderate demands, as compared with the later extremism, and one led by the fiery clerics and their assemblies, compared to the later common lay leadership.