The Religious Origins of the French Revolution: From Calvin to the Civil Constitution, 1560-1791

Although the French Revolution is associated with efforts to dechristianize the French state and citizenry, it actually had long-term religious -- even Christian -- origins, claims Dale Van Kley in this controversial new book. Looking back at the two and a half centuries that preceded the revolution, Van Kley explores the diverse, often warring religious strands that influenced political events up to the revolution.