The contributors to this collection were asked to write a chapter on one of the founding fathers that incorporated a brief biographical sketch and an examination of the founder's religious beliefs and affiliations. Some of the essays offer new interpretations, others summarize their subject's point of view. The collection also includes a chapter on the current state of scholarship in religion and politics in the early republic. The resulting volume is a concise overview of the religious roots of the United States. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)