How did the first great awakening affect attitudes towards religion in the colonies in the 1700's

Before the Great Awakening, the attitude towards religion was that it was a necessary part of society, and people would view religion as a chore. Additionally, religion was often united with politics.

During the Great Awakening, people began to see religion emotionally and spiritually. Sermons became more "revival-like". There began to be greater toleration of different peoples, and it changed the way many practiced their religion.

The biggest significance in the Colonies was how it prepared the Colonists for the Declaration of Independence and the following events. They began to see religion as a personal power, instead of one owned by the state. (Like the Church of England.) They began to be more independent and more self-confident in all types of freedoms.