Good citizens

By James G. Greenlee

Book Description

Between 1870 and 1918, the world witnessed unprecedented imperial expansion and conflict that fundamentally challenged Christian missionary work across the globe. During this pivotal era, British missionary societies found themselves navigating an increasingly complex landscape where spiritual calling intersected with political realities in ways that could no longer be ignored.

James G. Greenlee presents a compelling examination of how missionary leaders responded to these dramatic shifts in global power dynamics. Drawing from extensive archival research, this historical study reveals the intricate ways that evangelical organizations adapted their approaches as traditional mission fields became contested territories between competing empires.

The book illuminates the often contradictory positions these religious leaders adopted when faced with imperial pressures, economic interests, and military conflicts that directly impacted their spiritual work. Rather than operating in isolation from worldly concerns, these missionary societies discovered they were inextricably linked to the political forces reshaping the international order.

For readers interested in understanding how spiritual movements navigate complex social and political environments, this work offers valuable insights into the challenges of maintaining religious integrity while engaging with broader historical forces. The study demonstrates how faith communities have historically grappled with questions of citizenship, loyalty, and moral responsibility during periods of significant global transformation.

This scholarly exploration provides a thoughtful perspective on the intersection of spiritual mission and political reality during a defining period in modern history.