Question

When Jefferson won the election, many fearful congregationalists hid their Bibles. Why would they do that? How did the political mudslinging create such fear?

Answer 1

Thomas Jefferson wanted to separate the institution of the church and the state. Religious people did not agree with him and accused him of being atheist. When Jefferson won the election the Congregationalists hid their Bibles because they were afraid to practise their religion and ruine their reputation. This fear was influenced by the political mudslinging during this time.

Answer 2

Thomas Jefferson wanted to limit the influence of the church into the political decisions of the state of Virginia. However, many devoted religious groups such as the Congregationalists viewed this as an attempt to ban religion, as a subsequent persecution to this groups. This misinformation is believed to be spread due to the word-of-mouth of some citizens.