2026 isn’t the first time Christians have tried to claim the United States as their own

The idea that the United States is a Christian nation isn't a new phenomenon; it has been a recurring theme throughout American history, from the Civil War to the Cold War. This perspective often emerges during times of existential fear, as a way for some Christians to assert their influence and identity in the country. Understanding this historical context helps us grasp the ongoing debates about religion's role in public life and the broader implications for America's secular foundations and pluralistic society.