The Great Awakening was a period of religious revival in the 18th century that began in the 1730s in England and New England. It was led by preachers like Jonathan Edwards who felt colonists had become too worldly. They used passionate preaching styles to inspire religious conversions. The Awakening was influenced by harsh conditions in Europe that led many immigrants to the Americas seeking relief. While it did not directly cause the American Revolution, it did help unite the colonies and undermine the idea of respect for social superiors.