Haugean influence in America

The Haugean influence in America stems from the religious revival movement started by Hans Nielsen Hauge in Norway during the early 19th century. Hauge emphasized personal faith, piety, and social reform, encouraging laypeople to take an active role in spiritual life beyond formal church settings. When Norwegian immigrants brought these ideas to America, they fostered close-knit, faith-driven communities that valued individual devotion and community service. This influence contributed to the development of independent congregations, fostering a strong sense of religious independence, social responsibility, and grassroots spirituality among Norwegian-American populations.