The Great Awakening in American history refers to a series of religious revivals that swept through the colonies during the 18th century, particularly from the 1730s to the 1770s. This movement emphasized personal faith, emotional involvement in religion, and a direct relationship with God, often challenging established religious institutions and traditional authority. Key figures such as Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield played significant roles in spreading revivalist ideas. The Great Awakening had lasting effects on American religion, promoting denominational diversity, increased church attendance, and fostering a spirit of questioning authority, which later contributed to revolutionary sentiments.