Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation

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Examining the intersection of American evangelicalism and popular culture, Kristin Kobes Du Mez reveals how a tradition of rugged masculinity and Christian nationalism has shaped the beliefs of white evangelicals long before Donald Trump's presidency. By analyzing figures like Ronald Reagan, Mel Gibson, and John Wayne, Du Mez challenges the notion that evangelicals reluctantly supported Trump, illustrating instead a deep-rooted cultural shift that continues to influence their ideology. This historical exploration highlights the enduring impact of these beliefs within the evangelical movement.